Everyone at Rochdale Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former manager and player Tony Collins.
Aged 94, Mr Collins passed away this morning.
Born in Kensington in 1926, Tony started his professional career at Sheffield Wednesday.
Moves to York City, Watford, Norwich City, Torquay United and Crystal Palace followed, before he signed for Rochdale in 1959.
After just one season at Spotland, he was appointed as player/ manager of the Club, becoming the first black manager in English league football. He continued in the dual-role for a short-time before hanging up his playing boots and he stayed in charge of the side until 1967.
During his seven years in charge at Dale, Tony led the Club to the 1962 League Cup Final. To this day, it ranks as one of only two League Cup final appearances by a fourth-tier side.
In addition to his roles as assistant manager and caretaker manager at Bristol City, he worked as a scout for a number of clubs, including Leeds United and Manchester United.
Our thoughts are with Tony’s son, daughters and family at this sad time.