Glenn Roeder, who managed West Ham United between 2001 and 2003, has died at the age of 65 following a lengthy illness.
Roeder was a much-liked and respected coach who also managed Gillingham, Watford, Newcastle United and Norwich City. He worked as a coach with England during Glenn Hoddle’s spell as the national team manager.
While in charge at West Ham in April 2003 Roeder, who had led the club to a seventh-placed finish the season before, was diagnosed with a brain tumour. He had to undergo surgery and a period of recovery before returning to the dugout in July the same year. His last role in the game was as a managerial adviser at Stevenage in 2016.
As a player Roeder captained Queens Park Rangers in the 1982 FA Cup final against Tottenham, which they lost following a replay, and to the Second Division title in 1983. He also made 219 appearances for Newcastle in five years and led them to promotion from the Second Division in 1984.
“A cultured defender as a player, he managed with a studious style and was always generous with his time and ideas,” the League Managers’ Association chairman, Howard Wilkinson, said in a statement.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former manager Glenn Roeder at the age of 65. The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with Glenn’s family and friends.
— West Ham United (@WestHam) February 28, 2021
Rest in peace, Glenn ⚒❤️ pic.twitter.com/hmlnzYkWtI
“Glenn was such an unassuming, kind gentleman who demonstrated lifelong dedication to the game. Not one to court headlines, his commitment and application to his work at all levels warrants special mention. Football has lost a great servant today and our sincere condolences go to Glenn’s family and friends.”
Gary Neville worked with Roeder during his time as an England player. Speaking during commentary duties for Sky Sports at Chelsea’s Premier League home match against Manchester United on Sunday, the former full-back described Roeder as a “fantastic person, well respected by all the players and it’s really sad news”.
Don Hutchison, who played under Roeder at West Ham, wrote on Twitter: “I’ll never ever forget when my dad was passing away. The gaffa told me to get in my car to Newcastle and go see him quick. Glenn was on the phone with me for all 5 hours of my journey! Sleep well gaffa. My thoughts are with his family.”