Mike Bailey dead at 84: Former England star and legendary Wolves captain dies as tributes pour in

WOLVES legend Mike Bailey has passed away at the age of 84. The ex-midfielder who played for England on two occasions, spent 11 years at Molineux. Wolves legend Mike Bailey has passed away Credit: Getty He was loved by all at Molineux Credit: Alamy In their official statement, Wolves described Bailey as the club’s leader during their revival in English football in the 60s and 70s. It read: “During that popular Wolves stint, Bailey was known by those on the Molineux terraces for his love of a tackle, creative passing and eye for the occasional spectacular strike, but more than all that, his leadership.” Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! During his first full season at the club, Bailey was part of the side who won promotion back to the top division in 1967. He was named Midlands Player of the Year in the process. Once Wolves were back in the big time, Bailey was a key figure in the team who reached the Uefa Cup final in 1972. They lost 3-2 to Tottenham Hotspur in an all-English affair. Bailey was then able to get his hands on some silverware two years later, as he captained Wolves to a League Cup triumph at the Old Wembley. In what the club described as his “finest afternoon at the club”, Wolves came out 2-1 winners over Manchester City. Most read in Sport It’s also worth noting that Bailey’s impressive career saw him make two national team appearances in 1964. Following his retirement from the game in 1979, after a season in America with Minnesota Kicks and one last campaign with Hereford, Bailey went on to manage Hereford, Charlton, Brighton, Greek team OFI and Leatherhead. After being diagnosed with dementia in 2020, Bailey died today at the age of 84. The tributes have poured in for the legend. One fan wrote: “Rest well captain.” Another said: “So sorry to hear of the passing of Mike Bailey. Just before my time supporting Wolves. But everyone tells me he was as tough as they came and an inspirational leader. Thoughts with his family and friends.” While a third posted: “Just hearing the very Sad news of the passing of the Great Mike Bailey sending my Deepest Condolences to his Family and friends at this sad time Charlton Athletic also posted: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player and promotion-winning Manager Mike Bailey at the age of 84.” Comment now