Walsall legends Darren Byfield and Martin O’Connor have today reacted to the news that former WBA, Coventry, Wolves and Aston Villa striker Cyrille Regis has sadly passed away over night aged 59, due to a heart attack.
Regis never played for the Saddlers but you only need to look at the reaction of some of our best ever players to see the impact Regis had on their careers.
Regis formed an unstoppable partnership with Laurie Cunningham and Brendon Batson and they were nicknamed ‘The Three Degrees’ – they were obviously not the first black professional footballers in England but it was unusual that an English club would field three black players during the late 70’s and their inclusion was integral to the acceptance in English Leagues – not that it should have ever been a problem!
Darren Byfield, scored our winning goal in the 2001 play off final and had this to say
‘He had so much time for everyone and a big reason that we could put on our football boots and play the game without racial abuse. He will be missed’
Martin O’Connor, club captain for many years and former assistant manager said;
RIP Cyrille Regis….such an inspiration to me growing up and will be forever be a true football legend’
In later life Regis was given a MBE for his services to football.
On behalf of everyone at Vital Walsall we send our condolences to the family and friends of Regis.
Rest in peace Cyrille.
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