Overview
Jonathan Antoni Gittens (22 January 1964 – 11 May 2019) was an English professional footballer and later a coach. Born in Moseley, Birmingham, he spent most of his playing career as a central defender, a role often noted for its emphasis on marking, aerial duels and organization of the back line (centre back). His career included extended spells in the English league system and he remained involved in the game after retiring as a player (player profile).
Club career
Gittens began his senior career at Southampton and became best known for his time at Swindon Town, where from 1987 to 1991 he made over 120 appearances. He returned to Southampton in 1991 and went on to represent several other clubs before finishing his Football League playing days. His club affiliations included:
Playing characteristics
As a centre back, Gittens occupied a position responsible for resisting opposing attacks and clearing danger from his penalty area. Players in this role are typically expected to combine physical presence, timing in tackles, and competence in aerial challenges. Throughout his career he was selected by a sequence of league clubs for those attributes and for the experience he brought to defensive units.
Later career and legacy
After retiring from full-time playing, Gittens stayed in football through coaching and management at non-league level, sharing experience with younger players and local teams. He was remembered by former clubs and supporters when he died on 11 May 2019 at the age of 55. Tributes highlighted his long service in the English leagues and his continuing involvement in the sport after his playing days ended.
Gittens's career illustrates the path of a professional defender in the English game: moving between clubs, contributing in the Football League, and remaining connected to football through coaching. For further basic information, see club histories and contemporary match reports for the teams listed above (Southampton, Swindon Town, Middlesbrough).