The Football Association are saddened to hear of the death of Keith Blunt, former National Coach and Director of The FA’s National School.
Blunt, who was inducted into The FA’s Coaching Hall of Fame in 2014 for his outstanding services to coaching, was at the forefront of English coach education during the 1970s and 80s, working as an FA Regional Coach before progressing onto a number of national roles.
He will be fondly remembered for his pioneering work at The FA National School in Lilleshall, where he presided over a hugely successful period of English player development.
During his time at the school - which set the platform for the modern day academy system - Blunt contributed to the development of a host of players who went on to enjoy successful international and domestic careers.
Jamie Carragher, Michael Owen, Wes Brown, Joe Cole, Scott Parker, Sol Campbell and Nick Barmby are just some of the names to progress from The FA’s residential school under his tutelage and guidance.
In addition to his work with the national set-up, Blunt also worked as youth team coach at Tottenham Hotspur as well as managing Sutton United and Swedish side, Malmo.
After leaving the national school, Blunt spent almost a decade in various coaching roles in China.
Even in retirement, his lifelong passion for coaching and working with players was undiminished and he could be regularly found on the training field working with local teams and players.
Keith passed away on Friday after a long battle with cancer. All at The Football Association would like to pass on their condolences and best wishes to Keith’s family.
