Former Spurs, Wolves, Bradford & Southampton defender Dean Richards today passed away aged 36 after a long illness R.I.P.
Everyone at Wolves was saddened to hear of the death of Dean Richards, who passed away this morning at the age of 36 after a long-term battle with serious illness. Wolves would like to take this opportunity to send their condolences to the former Molineux defender's family and friends. There will be a tribute paid to the defender ahead of next Sunday's game with his former club Spurs. Richards, always such a cool and composed defender, joined Wolves from Bradford in 1995, and made 145 appearances in his four years at the club becoming a real crowd favourite. There were plenty of happy memories from his time at Molineux, notably coming back from injury to score in a 2-0 win against West Bromwich Albion and playing a key role in the run to FA Cup Semi Final defeat by Arsenal in 1998. Ultimately Wolves were unable to bring Richards the top flight football he both craved and deserved, and he moved to Southampton in May, 1999, ironically his last appearance coming against a Bradford team which clinched promotion with victory at Molineux which took them to the Premier League. From Southampton he took another step up the ladder to join Tottenham, but while at the peak of his powers he was forced to retire at the age of due to suffering frequent dizzy spells and headaches. Richards' tally of appearances at Molineux was the most he made for any of his four clubs, and while with the club he fully immersed himself in the local community, living in Compton and even popping into the local pub for weekly quizzes! Remembered for his trademark skilful breaks out of defence as well as his ability in the air, Richards, who won four England-under-21 caps, will always be fondly remembered by Wolves fans who continued to follow his career closely when he moved on to Southampton and Tottenham. Wolves will pay further tribute to Richards on the Official Website next week and in the matchday programme for the game with Spurs.