We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Aston Villa, Walsall and Tamworth wing-half Alan Deakin, who has died at the age of 76.
Born in Balsall Heath on Thursday, 27th November 1941, Alan began his career with boyhood club Aston Villa where he would turn professional in 1959, going on to make over 230 league appearances over the next eleven years.
He joined the Saddlers in 1969 and would play fifty times for the Saddlers before leaving in 1972 and joining local side Tamworth for a further 2 years of football then retiring in 1974.
After he retired from the game he became a welder and lived in Aldridge, occasionally putting his boots back on to play for the Aston Villa Old Stars.
We would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Alan's family, friends and fans during this truly sad time.