Former Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Phil Parkes has died at the age of 79. Parkes spent 18 years with Wolves between 1960 and 1978 and made 382 appearances after joining the club as a schoolboy. He was inducted into the club's hall of fame in 2023.

Former team-mate John Richards told BBC Radio WM: "It's a sad day... Phil has been part of the Wolves family for the best part of 70 years. He's going to be a big loss. He was one of the people who would have your back. He looked frightening but he was the opposite. He was a big gentle giant until one of his friends was in trouble and then he was there to protect everybody."

Parkes made his first-team debut in 1966 and helped Wolves reach the Uefa Cup final in 1972, losing on aggregate to Tottenham Hotspur. After leaving Wolves, he finished his playing career in North America, including spells at Vancouver Whitecaps and Chicago Sting.

The club said Parkes had suffered a fall at home in 2025 that led to him spending the rest of his life under medical supervision. "The thoughts and prayers are with Lofty's loved ones at this sad time. Details on further club tributes will follow," Wolves said.