Chris Nicholl 1946-2024

It is with huge sadness that we learned of the passing of former Saints defender and Southampton manager Chris Nicholl aged 77.

Chris Nicholl had recently battled the onset of dementia suggested to be potentially Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disorder likely caused by repeated head injuries (heading a ball during his playing career) and passed away on Saturday 24^th February 2024 making his final transfer as his daughter Kathy lovingly said.

Chris always had time to stop and pose for photos & sign autographs as well as ask you if you were one of the people who were shouting “Nicholl out” down at the Dell !

Chris Nicholl is a former professional footballer who made a name for himself as a formidable defender in the English Football League.

He played for Southampton between 1977 and 1983, before returning to manage Southampton between 1985 and 1991, taking over from Lawrie McMenemy, and started the playing careers of legends such as Matt Le Tissier, Franny Benali, Alan Shearer, Neil Maddison, and Rod Wallace.  He also signed teenage goalkeeper Tim Flowers who became Britain’s most expensive goalkeeper when he was sold to Blackburn Rovers.

Our thoughts and condolences are with the immediate family and friends of Chris Nicholl at this difficult time.