Former Leicester City manager Craig Shakespeare has died at the age of 60.
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Shakespeare managed LeicesterDeath announced on ThursdayHe was 60 years oldWHAT HAPPENED?
The League Managers' Association (LMA) has released a statement from Shakespeare's family, announcing his passing at the age of 60. He was undergoing treatment for cancer in 2023, per BBC Sport, although his cause of death has not been revealed.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesWHO DID SHAKESPEARE MANAGE?
Shakespeare primarily operated as an assistant manager throughout a lengthy coaching stint after his playing days had ended. As a player, he represented Walsall, Sheffield Wednesday, West Bromwich Albion, Grimsby Town, Scunthorpe United, Telford United and Hednesford Town.
As a coach, he worked with West Brom, Leicester City, Hull City, Watford, Aston Villa and Norwich. He was appointed as Foxes manager in 2017 after the departure of Claudio Ranieri and managed the club in the Champions League.
WHAT THE LMA SAID
Shakespeare's family said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Craig Shakespeare, “SHAKEY”.
"Craig passed away peacefully this morning at home surrounded by his family.
"Whilst the family are immensely proud of his footballing achievements as both a player and a coach, to us, his family, he will always primarily be a loving and loved husband, father, son, brother and uncle.
"The loss is devastating to us all and we would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly difficult time as we try to come to terms with, and mourn, the loss of a very special person.
"The family would like to thank and acknowledge the many prayers and good wishes sent during the past few difficult months, many of which we were unable to respond to but all meant a lot to Craig and the family."
HOW SHAKESPEARE'S COLLEAGUES RESPONDED
As part of the LMA statement, a fellow ex-Leicester manager who has worked with Shakespeare repeatedly, Nigel Pearson, said: “It's difficult to put into words how I and indeed everyone who came across or worked with Craig will feel on hearing such devastating news.
“He is without hesitation one of the most wonderfully talented, emotionally understanding, calm, balanced and outrageously funny people I've had the privilege of calling my friend. Safe journey to the next destination my wonderful friend. You are loved and admired by us all, and every time we think of you, a smile, smirk, chuckle or memorable occasion will come to us. We truly are the lucky ones for having known Shakey.”