Howard Kendall (22 May 1946 – 17 October 2015) was an English football figure who achieved lasting fame both as a player and as a manager. Born in Ryton, County Durham, he enjoyed a professional playing career before moving into coaching and management. Kendall is most widely remembered for leading Everton through the club's most successful spell in the 1980s.

Playing career

Kendall was a midfielder noted for his tactical intelligence and work rate. Over a playing career that spanned the 1960s and 1970s he represented several English clubs, including spells with Preston North End, Everton and others, before finishing his playing days in the Football League. His experience as a player provided the foundation for his later coaching approach and man-management style.

Managerial achievements

As a manager, Kendall combined tactical organisation with an ability to get the best from individuals. His first spell in charge of Everton began in the early 1980s and culminated in a remarkable period of sustained success. Under his stewardship the club won major domestic honours and a European trophy, establishing Everton as one of England's top teams of the decade. His achievements at Goodison Park made him a central figure in the club's modern history.

Later career and other roles

After leaving Everton Kendall held a number of other managerial posts, including at Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers. He also returned to Everton on more than one occasion in different capacities, and for a brief period served in a senior non-playing role at the club. These later appointments were mixed in outcome but reinforced his reputation as a respected and experienced football manager.

Legacy and notable facts

Kendall is remembered for his influence on Everton's identity and for assembling sides capable of competing domestically and in Europe. His calm demeanour, tactical acumen and eye for recruitment earned him admiration from players and supporters alike. He remained associated with Everton throughout his life and is frequently cited in discussions of the club's greatest managers.

Major honours

  • Domestic cup and league success with Everton in the 1980s, including FA Cup and league titles
  • European success with Everton, most notably the 1985 European Cup Winners' Cup
  • Recognition as one of England's influential managers of his generation

For further biographical detail and season-by-season records, see specialist club histories and archival sources, which provide match statistics, squad lists and managerial timelines. Kendall's life and career are also documented in many histories of English football and retrospectives on Everton's golden era.