John Richards becomes Wolves Former Players' Association chairman

The Wolves Former Players’ Association have appointed club great John Richards as their new chairman.

Published Mar 10, 2021

Last updated Mar 10, 2021

New chairman John Richards, third right, with, from left, Wolves Former Players’ Association’s communications officer Paul Berry, vice-chairman Steve Daley, committee member Phil Parkes, administration manager Richard Green and committee member Geoff Palmer

Richards steps up to the role in place of former League Cup-winning Wolves captain Mike Bailey, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s last year.

Part of the organisation’s renewed approach with Richards – previously their vice-chairman – at the helm will be to support ex-players who are suffering from dementia-related conditions.

The former striker was unanimously appointed as chairman by the FPA committee.

Andy Thompson has also joined the group after John McAlle decided to step down, with Steve Daley now in the role of vice-chairman.

“I am both proud and delighted to be appointed as chairman of Wolves Former Players’ Association,”said Richards.

“First of all, I want to thank Mike for his contribution to the FPA over a number of years.

“As a former team-mate of Mike, I was always greatly inspired both by his ability as a player and his status as a fantastic leader, and the sad news of his diagnosis is something that will continue to have an influence on the FPA moving forward as we aim to help any former footballers who are struggling with dementia.”