Craig Robert Shakespeare was a renowned English football coach and former midfielder. He started his career at Walsall and made significant contributions to teams like Sheffield Wednesday, West Bromwich Albion, and Grimsby Town. This article explores his life and career, covering his background, education, career, family, net worth, and more.
Background
Craig Shakespeare was born on October 26, 1963, in Birmingham, United Kingdom. His early life in Birmingham shaped his passion for football, which he pursued fervently from a young age.
Education
Craig attended local schools in Birmingham where he balanced his academics with his growing interest in football. While there isn’t much detailed information on his formal education, it is known that his football talent was recognized early on, paving the way for his future career.
Age
Craig Shakespeare was 60 years old at the time of his passing on August 1, 2024. His life spanned six decades, during which he left an indelible mark on English football.
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Professional Playing Career
From a young age, Craig was passionate about football. This passion eventually led him to start his professional career with Walsall.
Walsall
He signed as an apprentice with Walsall in September 1979 and turned professional in November 1981. Shakespeare considered his goal in a 2–2 League Cup draw against Chelsea in October 1984 to be the best of his career.
Sheffield Wednesday
He played over 350 games for Walsall, scoring 59 goals. In 1989, he transferred to Sheffield Wednesday, then in the First Division, for a fee of £300,000.
West Bromwich Albion
Craig then moved to West Bromwich Albion in 1990, where he made over 100 appearances until 1993. His performance at West Brom further cemented his reputation as a reliable midfielder. After his playing career, Shakespeare transitioned into coaching and management.
Grimsby Town
Craig played for West Bromwich Albion from 1990 to 1993, making 112 appearances and scoring 12 goals. After Albion’s promotion in 1993, he moved to Grimsby Town, where he made over 100 appearances and became a well-respected figure in English football.
Coaching Career
He returned to West Brom in 1999 to start his coaching career. He began as a football community officer and later served as an academy coach, reserve team coach, and caretaker manager.
Craig Shakespeare had a distinguished coaching career. He served as Hull City’s assistant manager from 2010 to 2011. After that, he joined Leicester City as an assistant coach from 2011 to 2017, later becoming the team’s manager in 2017. His time at Leicester was marked by dedication and significant contributions to the team’s success, including helping them win the Premier League.
Craig also worked as the assistant manager at Watford and Norwich City. In the summer of 2020, he joined Aston Villa, reuniting with Dean Smith. They later worked together again at Norwich City and Leicester City. Craig’s coaching journey reflects his adaptability and expertise in football management.
Family
Craig Shakespeare was married to his wife, Karen. Together, they had two children, Elle and Jed. His family provided strong support throughout his career, both as a player and as a coach.
Awards
Throughout his career, Craig Shakespeare received numerous accolades, both as a player and as a coach. His achievements in football were a testament to his dedication and skill.
Death
Craig Shakespeare was diagnosed with cancer in October 2023 and had been undergoing treatment. A statement from the Shakespeare family announced his death on August 1, 2024.
Legacy
Craig Shakespeare’s legacy in football is significant. His journey from a dedicated midfielder to a respected coach serves as an inspiration to many aspiring footballers. His impact on the teams he played for and coached will be remembered for years to come.
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FAQs
- How old was Craig Shakespeare when he passed away?
Craig Shakespeare was 60 years old at the time of his passing on August 1, 2024.
2. What teams did Craig Shakespeare play for?
Craig Shakespeare played for Walsall, Sheffield Wednesday, West Bromwich Albion, and Grimsby Town.
3. When did Craig Shakespeare become a coach?
Craig Shakespeare began his coaching career and joined Leicester City as an assistant coach from 2011 to 2017. He later became the team’s manager in 2017.
4. What is Craig Shakespeare’s legacy in football?
Craig Shakespeare’s football legacy is notable, marked by his transition from dedicated midfielder to respected coach. His journey inspires many aspiring footballers.
5. What was Craig Shakespeare’s role at Leicester City?
Craig Shakespeare served as an assistant coach at Leicester City from 2011 to 2017 and later became the team’s manager in 2017.
In conclusion, Craig Shakespeare’s biography is a testament to his enduring impact on English football. From his early days as a midfielder to his coaching career, he left an indelible mark on the sport. His journey serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the dedication required to succeed in football.
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