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Posted by: Lord Sommet, March 3, 2010, 12:22pm
Quoted from macclesfield os
It is our sad duty to report that Keith Alexander passed away today after arriving home from Macclesfield Town's game at Notts County last night.
Keith was a splendid man. He will be sorely missed at the Moss Rose and by everyone involved in football.
Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family at this very difficult time.
I only saw him on Sunday doing his shopping at work!
RIP Keith.
Posted by: Nick745, March 3, 2010, 12:25pm; Reply: 1
Posted by: Lord Sommet, March 3, 2010, 12:27pm; Reply: 2
Posted by: marinerian, March 3, 2010, 12:27pm; Reply: 3
OMG, I liked Keith, I loved him at Town, he alsways got the last minute winner after coming on with 10 mins to go! He also tried to get me into Sincil Bank so we could complete a uni assignment, he tried every door to get me and my mate out to the pitch, we had a nice chat about Grimsby and I mentioned his goals and he was very graceful and embarrased by the praise
RIP :'(
Posted by: Germane Host, March 3, 2010, 12:27pm; Reply: 4
Posted by: Wrawby_Mariner, March 3, 2010, 12:28pm; Reply: 5
Posted by: Lumpsleftbreast, March 3, 2010, 12:28pm; Reply: 6
Posted by: 97 (Guest), March 3, 2010, 12:29pm; Reply: 7
Legend. Shocked and gutted.
Posted by: 75 (Guest), March 3, 2010, 12:30pm; Reply: 8
I am devastated to hear this. Dusky was a hero of mine and I am absolutely staggered to hear this terrible news. Who can forget his header at Wimbledon putting us ahead? He was a key player in getting us started when we moved up the leagues in ’88.
My thoughts go out to his family and all at Macclesfield Town F.C.
Posted by: carrot top, March 3, 2010, 12:30pm; Reply: 9
Saddened by his untimely death
Always had a smile on his face when playing for Town and I think the fans at the time really took to him
Posted by: RoboCod, March 3, 2010, 12:30pm; Reply: 10
Extremely distressing.
Very much so. What a shock. I'll never forget those long legs sticking out awkwardly but somehow controlling the ball. RIP Big Fella :B
Posted by: shebaswhiskers, March 3, 2010, 12:30pm; Reply: 11
I cant believe this. I loved this guy when he was here. Met him outside of football as well and he was a top bloke. RIP
Posted by: carrot top, March 3, 2010, 12:32pm; Reply: 12
kinda puts things into perspective really
Hope Town do something on Saturday to honour him
Posted by: dazwev, March 3, 2010, 12:33pm; Reply: 13
big keef will always bem remembered as a legend! rip x
Posted by: samgtfc, March 3, 2010, 12:34pm; Reply: 14
RIP Big Keith, sadly missed :o
Posted by: Knowledge is power, March 3, 2010, 12:35pm; Reply: 15
A true legend in my book, i was once hit by a chip thrown by him in Skegness when he was at Town.
Very sad news my thoughts are with his family!
Posted by: blacknwhite66, March 3, 2010, 12:35pm; Reply: 16
Top bloke. Often bumped into him through his lad footballing in the Mid lincs League, always took time to have a word, very knowledgeable of the game. Very sad news.
Posted by: Fishy_Fingers, March 3, 2010, 12:36pm; Reply: 17
Very sad to hear this.
R.I.P Big Keith
Posted by: flash1, March 3, 2010, 12:36pm; Reply: 18
Posted by: MarinerJosh, March 3, 2010, 12:37pm; Reply: 19
Posted by: kamakazebear, March 3, 2010, 12:37pm; Reply: 20
RIP, hope there is a minutes silence on saturday for him
Posted by: GTFC_MAN, March 3, 2010, 12:37pm; Reply: 21
:o :o Bye Dusky RIP mate :o :o
Posted by: theicenian, March 3, 2010, 12:38pm; Reply: 22
Spent a happy first half of our Macc game in the company of Big Kief. One of footballs good guys. RIP.
Posted by: flash1, March 3, 2010, 12:40pm; Reply: 23
kinda puts things into perspective really
Hope Town do something on Saturday to honour him
EXActly
Posted by: BIGChris, March 3, 2010, 12:40pm; Reply: 24
A true footballing man. RIP
Condolences to all his family.
Posted by: Green27, March 3, 2010, 12:41pm; Reply: 25
What a great man Not just for us but for football and he'll be sadly missed
Posted by: W.T.F, March 3, 2010, 12:42pm; Reply: 26
GUTTED - he was a hero of mine as a kid. r.i.p - hope we have a minutes silence on saturday and the playeres wear black armbands
Posted by: Biccys, March 3, 2010, 12:43pm; Reply: 27
OMG, truly shocked by this. I knew of his illness previously, but had no clue there were more problems, if at all.
RIP Ketih, I'll always remember carrying you off shoulder high after a promotion season. GTFC legend.
Posted by: Corkyefes, March 3, 2010, 12:46pm; Reply: 28
Shocked big style.
Rest in Peace big man.
Posted by: psgmariner, March 3, 2010, 12:49pm; Reply: 29
Gutted. Loved him as a player...
RIP.
Posted by: arryarryarry, March 3, 2010, 12:51pm; Reply: 30
RIP, hope there is a minutes silence on saturday for him
I agree, very very sad news.
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 3, 2010, 12:56pm; Reply: 31
Terrible news. I knew he had been ill not too long ago but I thought all that was behind him.
RIP Keith, one of football good guys and a GTFC legend.
Posted by: Peeler_Crab, March 3, 2010, 12:57pm; Reply: 32
Very sad news.
My greatest memory of him is when he headed the opening goal v Wimbledon at Plough Lane in the late 80's in front of 6,000 travelling Mariners - as BP Vicar mentioned.
RIP Big Keith.
Posted by: Civvy at last, March 3, 2010, 12:59pm; Reply: 33
Just got up after working nights to hear this shocking news.
I knew Keith well. A top top man.
condolences to Helen and the family.
Posted by: FishOutOfWater, March 3, 2010, 1:01pm; Reply: 34
Just found this out myself when I went on line over lunch...
My thoughts go to his nearest and dearest
RIP Keith
Posted by: forza ivano, March 3, 2010, 1:02pm; Reply: 35
am gutted to hear this news. a real hero of my mine from that era. i hope that town hold a suitable tribute for him on Saturday.
Posted by: Brazilnut, March 3, 2010, 1:02pm; Reply: 36
god bless.....did town proud at times.....thinking of his family
Posted by: GrimRob, March 3, 2010, 1:04pm; Reply: 37
Great player. Some great memories of Big Keith from the Buckley I era.
Posted by: bobbyturtle, March 3, 2010, 1:06pm; Reply: 38
RIP, hope there is a minutes silence on saturday for him
indeed, or a mins applause. a legend rip
Posted by: semilapsedmariner, March 3, 2010, 1:06pm; Reply: 39
We and all the football community will miss the big fella.
Only 53 makes us older ones feel vunerable.
Posted by: The_Laughing_Mariner, March 3, 2010, 1:07pm; Reply: 40
Just Seen this on BBC website,
I am almost in tears
My abiding memory of Big Keith is a last minute winner at home to Carlisle, the ball bounced of his knee, shin, gonads, backside as he forced his way into the area before unleashing a trickler into the far corner of the net.
Another cracker was away at Scarborough where he stuck out one of his 7ft legs, took the ball of the centre half, gallopped away to score the winner,
Oh and two goals at Southend too
a legend
RIP Keith
Condolonces to his family and friends.
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 3, 2010, 1:10pm; Reply: 41
Another memory I have of Keef apart from the Wimbledon goal was when we played away at Rochdale and he had come on as a first half substitute only to be substituted himself midway through the second half. He was looking around in disbelief when he saw it was his number being held up.
Posted by: tarka, March 3, 2010, 1:10pm; Reply: 42
How very, very sad. Not the greatest player we have ever had....but one of the most memorable and will be remembered fondly by those of us who were around in the early Buckley era. My condolences to his family. RIP Big Keith.
Posted by: theicenian, March 3, 2010, 1:10pm; Reply: 43
indeed, or a mins applause. a legend rip
A minutes silence is the proper fitting tribute to a great guy.
Posted by: NewtoN, March 3, 2010, 1:10pm; Reply: 44
Truely shocked and saddened by hearing this and my thoughts are with Big Keith's family :(
Posted by: Orange_Sauce, March 3, 2010, 1:10pm; Reply: 45
I'm too young to have seen him play for town live, but i have seen my dads old tapes. Really shocked.
RIP Keith
Posted by: pal123, March 3, 2010, 1:14pm; Reply: 46
Rest in peace. My thoughts are with the family and friends of this true legend at this sad time.(hurted)
Posted by: EY Mariner, March 3, 2010, 1:19pm; Reply: 47
I'm shocked and absolutely distraught by this truly dreadful news. I've already rung Macclesfield to express my condolences and I know that I spoke on all your behalves and on behalf of every single Town fan. I'm almost in tears as I type.
Posted by: RoboCod, March 3, 2010, 1:19pm; Reply: 48
Another cracker was away at Scarborough where he stuck out one of his 7ft legs, took the ball of the centre half, gallopped away to score the winner,
I remember it well. The terracing was quite flat where we were. As he galloped towards us the big boardings in front of us obscured the first 10 or so yards of the pitch, including the goal line of course. He just kept running, we were roaring him on, as his huge legs seemingly swallowed up yards with each stride. He drew the keeper and rolled it past him, the ball instantly became obscured by the boardings, and for a couple of seconds time stood still. Suddenly the net rippled and we went mental.
Great memories.
Posted by: Manchester Mariner, March 3, 2010, 1:20pm; Reply: 49
Absolutely gutted, I was extremely lucky to start going to watch Town when Buckley first came and signed a few non-league players, one of which being Keith. He became my first Town hero, despite his lack of ability he was always top scorer. So many memories from the guy, Wimbledon as had already been mentioned and against Hull in the Rumbelows Cup or whatever it was called at the time, he seemed to go in for a tackle outside the box and bizzarely the ball flew into the goal as a result.
RIP King Keith!
Posted by: oldgtfc, March 3, 2010, 1:22pm; Reply: 50
Im good friends with the doctor that was treating his heart problems a few years ago and he said then, he was lucky to survive the surgery never mind work again.
Just shows what storng bloke he was, a true gentle giant, still serving football till the very end.
RIP. Big Keith :o
Posted by: TheRonRaffertyFanClub, March 3, 2010, 1:28pm; Reply: 51
That is awful news. We all thought he was fully fit now and it must be a terrible blow to his family. RIP
Posted by: goolemariner, March 3, 2010, 1:29pm; Reply: 52
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 3, 2010, 1:38pm; Reply: 53
Im good friends with the doctor that was treating his heart problems a few years ago and he said then, he was lucky to survive the surgery never mind work again.
Just shows what storng bloke he was, a true gentle giant, still serving football till the very end.
RIP. Big Keith :o
I knew that he had suffered a brain aneuryism but I didn't know that he had heart problems too.
Posted by: NorthLeedsMariner, March 3, 2010, 1:39pm; Reply: 54
A gentle giant of the game - RIP 'Big' Keith
Posted by: Biccys, March 3, 2010, 1:40pm; Reply: 55
We MUST have a rendition of "AAAALEXANDER, ALEXANDER, ALEXANDER, AAAALEXANDER, ALEXANDER, ALEXANDER" on saturday. I hope the club carry out a minutes silence too.
Posted by: oldgtfc, March 3, 2010, 1:43pm; Reply: 56
I knew that he had suffered a brain aneuryism but I didn't know that he had heart problems too.
You might be right, i couldnt remember if it was his brain or heart but I can always remember my friend saying he beating the odds in surviving.
Posted by: RonMariner, March 3, 2010, 1:48pm; Reply: 57
I am totally shocked.
It was only last night that i saw him being interviewed on Sky after the Notts game. He looked absolutely fine.
He is a Town legend and no one that saw him play will ever forget him.
RIP Keith, you were great.
Posted by: topuphere666, March 3, 2010, 1:53pm; Reply: 58
RIP big man! thoughts go out to all the Alexander friends and family
Posted by: Riffraff, March 3, 2010, 1:55pm; Reply: 59
Sad sad day, legend in every sense of the word.
My ever lasting memeory of him was when we played at Lincoln around 90/91ish and the guy who used to do the original "I'll give you a G..R..I.." was there, he kept shouting "Alex, Alex...yoo hoo Alex" in a motherly kind of voice everytime he and the ball came near us. The only time he lost his concerntration was as the ball was directed to him from a throw in, 'Big Keef' looked at the crowd laughing ....as the ball went passed to the guy marking him!!
RIP Dusky
Posted by: NorfolkImp, March 3, 2010, 2:04pm; Reply: 60
Awful news, and sincere condolences to his young family in Scothern.
As well as being an obvious hero to Lincoln fans for leading us to a major final in Cardiff (twice) he was an absolute gent, having met and spoke to him on many occasions.
RIP Big Keef - you'll be sorely missed.
Posted by: forza ivano, March 3, 2010, 2:05pm; Reply: 61
apart from fordy wasn't he the first black player to play for town?so he was quite a groundbreaker - especially as the turned into a hero so quickly. just remember those long gangling legs and bizarre goals. a great buckley signing - am sure AB will have some great stories and memories.
oh, to have a keith alexander leading the line for us now.....
Posted by: Borbs, March 3, 2010, 2:05pm; Reply: 62
Just heard this sad sad news, what a great loss to his family and the beautiful game after recovering from his previous illness. Had time to speak to anyone about football was always gracious with his thoughts and comments. RIP
Posted by: Cayman_mariner, March 3, 2010, 2:05pm; Reply: 63
Gutted at this news, cannot believe it at such a young age - a Giant of a man and a true GTFC Legend.
A very un-gamely player but a key part of Alan Buckleys team here.
I have some great memories of Big Keith in a Town shirt: a great performance for Town in an away win at Southend when they were at the top of the table and we were second or third, and will never forget the tackle/goal he scored whilst on one knee for Town at the edge of the box- always gave his all and a true fans favourite.
A great loss - RIP Big Keith :'(
Posted by: Mariner16, March 3, 2010, 2:07pm; Reply: 64
Garry Birtles on Sky Sports News talking about his playing relationship and friendship with Keith here
Posted by: DavyGTFC, March 3, 2010, 2:19pm; Reply: 65
Like others I saw his interview on SSN last night and this news comes as a complete shock RIP Big Keef and love to your family - Keith Alexander One of the Good Guys
Posted by: joe56, March 3, 2010, 2:20pm; Reply: 66
So sorry to hear the news. I have fond memories of Keith, not as a big bustling centre forward as his size would suggest, but as a very skilful wide player on the left (he always wore the number 11 shirt). His goal at Wimbledon will be my abiding memory of him. I met him a couple of times, and he was a very nice guy. Condolences to his family.
Posted by: mariner91, March 3, 2010, 2:31pm; Reply: 67
What a shock, really sad news. Was a really nice chap the one time I got to meet him as he watching his son play football against my younger brother. RIP Keith.
Posted by: bawarmy, March 3, 2010, 2:40pm; Reply: 68
RIP Big Keith, great player for us, a town legend
Posted by: triffontourgtfc, March 3, 2010, 2:45pm; Reply: 69
RIP Big Keith, great player for us, a town legend
says it all rip big man
Posted by: Badger57, March 3, 2010, 2:48pm; Reply: 70
Sad sad news. RIP big Keith. :o
Those great mazy runs where I'm sure even he didn't know where the ball was supposed to be! :)
THAT goal at Wimbledon that released a shoal of waving Harry Haddocks - UNFORGETTABLE! :)
Posted by: MuddyWaters, March 3, 2010, 2:50pm; Reply: 71
Deepest condolences to Helen.
Keith was a top bloke who made time for anybody, RIP Big Fella.
Posted by: Havelock the Dane, March 3, 2010, 2:52pm; Reply: 72
A true Town hero, and a terribly sad loss.
I'm sure he will always have a place in the heart of Grimsby Town fans everywhere.
Posted by: Biccys, March 3, 2010, 2:53pm; Reply: 73
I loved watching him maraud down the left wing to win us countless corners!
Posted by: Biccys, March 3, 2010, 2:54pm; Reply: 74
He also told me to F**K OFF after I tried to nick his shorts when we'd been promoted!!!
"AAALEXANDER, ALEXANDER, ALEXANDER, AAALEXANDER, ALEXANDER, ALEXANDER"
Posted by: cleemariner1, March 3, 2010, 3:05pm; Reply: 75
RIP KIETH!A TOWN LEGEND! :o
Posted by: ticker_1610, March 3, 2010, 3:07pm; Reply: 76
RIP Keith, big man big heart, a character n legend!
Posted by: meggiesbeergut, March 3, 2010, 3:10pm; Reply: 77
RIP Keith, a true Town Legend with a heart like a lion.
Posted by: woodi147, March 3, 2010, 3:14pm; Reply: 78
Posted by: Marinerz93, March 3, 2010, 3:22pm; Reply: 79
I shook his hand as we were on our way to Cheltenham and wished him good luck for the coming season, he said I always wishes the Mariners luck and he had a lot of Mariners shaking his hand that day. What struck me was the look on some of the Macclesfield players faces once they realised we weren't Macc fans. I don't think they understood how an ex player and rival manager would get such a great appreciation from supporters of his old club.
Gentle giant and great character for the game and will be sorely missed.
R.I.P Keith
My thoughts are with his wife and family.
Posted by: Mariner16, March 3, 2010, 3:41pm; Reply: 80
I'm scanning pics I can see in the Pictorial history of the club done by the telegraph. One includes him and his son. Thoughts with him and his family. Should I put the picture up?
Posted by: sutton mariner, March 3, 2010, 3:46pm; Reply: 81
Posted by: forza ivano, March 3, 2010, 3:47pm; Reply: 82
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 3, 2010, 3:48pm; Reply: 83
I'm scanning pics I can see in the Pictorial history of the club done by the telegraph. One includes him and his son. Thoughts with him and his family. Should I put the picture up?
Yeah, that picture is in one of the history of GTFC books that I have.
Posted by: Alfie, March 3, 2010, 3:51pm; Reply: 84
I interviewed Keith once. Although it was only for half an hour or so, I got the feeling of a warm, passionate man who genuinely cared greatly about the game.
Such a sad, sad loss.
RIP BIG KEEF.
Posted by: Mariners_15, March 3, 2010, 3:52pm; Reply: 85
And here was me a week or so ago saying he should be appointed as the new Town boss. We'll never get to find out wether he would be any good although I got a lot of stick!
RIP Keith, my thought are with his family. :'(
Posted by: dangtfc1, March 3, 2010, 3:52pm; Reply: 86
Great man - part of Town history from a golden era.
Rest in Peace.
Personally, I think a minutes applause would be more fitting for someone who contributed so much and made people applaud him in life with his performances.
Posted by: Gainsbro_Mariner, March 3, 2010, 3:55pm; Reply: 87
Proper gutted! True gentleman, decent polite bloke, proper lower league football manager, good spirit and hard worker. Sorely missed :o
RIP Big Keith
Posted by: sonik, March 3, 2010, 4:02pm; Reply: 88
So sad to hear this news. A very nice person and will be sadly missed by many. RIP!!
Posted by: skegmariner, March 3, 2010, 4:03pm; Reply: 89
Gutted by the news, a true gent and have some fantastic memories of the big man, puts a lot of things into perspective.
a very very sad day, just hope the club honour his memory on sat
Posted by: RoboCod, March 3, 2010, 4:06pm; Reply: 90
Gutted by the news, a true gent and have some fantastic memories of the big man, puts a lot of things into perspective.
a very very sad day, just hope the club honour his memory on sat
Wouldn't do the club any harm to get some guests of honour in for Sat. What better tribute than some ex players/mates like Cockers led by Alan Buckley to lead a minutes silence.
Posted by: Hameln Mariner, March 3, 2010, 4:08pm; Reply: 91
A true Town legend, gone but will never be forgotten.
Thanks for the memories.
RIP Big Keith.
Posted by: Lord Sommet, March 3, 2010, 4:09pm; Reply: 92
Just been to the Lincoln reserves game and Donny manager was there and mate spoke to him for Lincoln uni paper and he said how he (donny manager) was at the game last night and was in total shock still. Said Keith was a gentleman and respected through out the game and will be sorely missed. I'll post the full interview when it gets done.
Manager also said he didn't have any strikers for us to borrow.
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 3, 2010, 4:17pm; Reply: 93
I understand that the England players tonight will be wearing black armbands. I just hope that ITV will mention why as on some occasions you see players wearing black armbands but there is no mention as to whom it is for.
Posted by: tarka, March 3, 2010, 4:20pm; Reply: 94
Great man - part of Town history from a golden era.
Rest in Peace.
Personally, I think a minutes applause would be more fitting for someone who contributed so much and made people applaud him in life with his performances.
I would agree with that wholeheartedly.
Posted by: gtfc82, March 3, 2010, 4:27pm; Reply: 95
Truly saddened to hear this news. Keith had a big heart on and off the pitch and people only ever had nice words to say about him.
A true gentleman and a sad loss to football.
Rest In Peace Keith
Posted by: Lord Sommet, March 3, 2010, 4:38pm; Reply: 96
I think given todays news Les, they will do. There will also be a minutes silence before the game.
Posted by: forza ivano, March 3, 2010, 4:43pm; Reply: 97
Posted by: hampshiremariner, March 3, 2010, 4:54pm; Reply: 98
The whole of the football world is in shock. Keith was a true stalwart of the game and guys like him are getting thinner on the ground. Rest in peace big man.
Posted by: paulfcb, March 3, 2010, 5:10pm; Reply: 99
Most of my favourite memories are during his playing days. Great times following Town home and away. The football world has lost a proper gentleman. Damn! Why do the good guys get taken so young? RIP Big Keith..
Posted by: davmariner, March 3, 2010, 5:10pm; Reply: 100
Deeply saddening and shocking news. RIP Keith Alexander, Grimsby Town hero.
Posted by: Lord Sommet, March 3, 2010, 5:16pm; Reply: 101
Lincoln vital are reporting Keith died from a bleed on the brain. Not sure if this has been confirmed but Neil who runs vital and has put the article up (worth a read fantastic article) knew Keith and his family personally so I would think this is true.
http://www.lincoln.vitalfootball.co.uk/sitepage.asp?a=190374
Posted by: Devonmatt, March 3, 2010, 5:20pm; Reply: 102
Keith Alexander - Legend. Part of a football team which filled a grateful generation of GTFC fans with the idea of 'what might be'.
My friends and I would always wonder at just how well Keith was able to control any ball fired at him with those huge thighs of his.
RIP
Posted by: bobmitchell, March 3, 2010, 5:26pm; Reply: 103
reast in peace big man......left a legacy here ....remember how he used to be better at having the ball played to his feet back to goal than in the air......always had time time for the fans up meggies on a saturday night with cockers,jobling,childsie and diddy
Posted by: 470 (Guest), March 3, 2010, 5:30pm; Reply: 104
Totally gutted, a sad time indeed - Rip Keith you will never be forgotten. :o :o
Posted by: TedMariner, March 3, 2010, 5:40pm; Reply: 105
Sad news indeed :( RIP Big Keith!
Posted by: 0ld timer, March 3, 2010, 5:57pm; Reply: 106
Posted by: Citymariner, March 3, 2010, 6:03pm; Reply: 107
Posted by: Trimm Tab, March 3, 2010, 6:23pm; Reply: 108
RIP Big Keef, didn`t find out until about half an hour ago, in extreme shock, played in one of the best town teams i have ever seen at the park.
One memory i have of him is when town were playing Rochdale at Spotland late 80`s, and he came on as a subsitute only to be subituted 1 or 2 minutes later, his face was a picture the stare he gave AB !
Posted by: gobby, March 3, 2010, 6:40pm; Reply: 109
:o RIP Keith, a true legend and gentleman,a sad day :o
Posted by: livosnose, March 3, 2010, 6:44pm; Reply: 110
remember the town fans stripping him down to his kegs when we got promoted against exeter and hoisting him on our shoulders towards the main stand , those size 15 hi techs will be tearing up the clouds in heaven , plus a typical ace goal at plough lane , RIP big man
Posted by: ollythemariner123, March 3, 2010, 6:46pm; Reply: 111
Posted by: headingly_mariner, March 3, 2010, 6:47pm; Reply: 112
a sad day and a big loss for football, the man was a true gent.
Posted by: Wembley 08, March 3, 2010, 6:55pm; Reply: 113
Legend
Posted by: Japers, March 3, 2010, 6:59pm; Reply: 114
Big Keith would score spectacular goals then miss one from a yard out, but was town through and through.
I had the pleasure of having a cup of tea with him in a motorway service area ( i was a manager there nothing football related)once just 2 days after he was sacked by Lincoln. I asked if he minded and we spoke for 15 minutes or more on how he changed tactics at Lincoln how he felt he was just a few weeks from the start o achieving what he set out to do , his time at Town nothing was too much trouble for him to chat about.
Top Man
Posted by: jock dock tower, March 3, 2010, 7:09pm; Reply: 115
As most fans have said, Keith was a real gentleman with no pretensions or delusions of grandeur. He wa sjust happy making a living out of playing the game. His uncanny ability to trap the ball in his gonds region, turn with the ball apparently stuck there, and then volley the dropping ball towards goal was amazing. The whackiest front two ever with Stevie Saunders? Great memories of a truly great man....
Posted by: Happy_Mariner, March 3, 2010, 7:11pm; Reply: 116
Already posted on this link and I am still in shock about this and truly saddened. I think Keith was a guy who was universally popular. People like Ferguson, Mourinho and Wenger have lovers and haters alike but Big Keith seemed to be hugely popular in the eyes of all those who experienced him both as a player and a manager.
I too hope that there is a fitting tribute at a future home game for him. He was in the team when I got my first season ticket and I used to sit behind Buckley's dugout in the Main Stand and as an impressionable 11 year old used to make me laugh at how Buckley could both praise and then crucify Keith within a matter of minutes.
As some have said not the most gifted footballer but a true gentleman.
Sadly missed.
Posted by: mariner paul, March 3, 2010, 7:14pm; Reply: 117
keith alexander not a great player, not a great manager,but a true gentleman and will be sadly missed rip keith
Posted by: Deco 2008, March 3, 2010, 7:23pm; Reply: 118
such a shock! RIP big man!
Posted by: meggietown, March 3, 2010, 7:48pm; Reply: 119
RIP big man ,massive loss to the game of football,glad England wearing black arm bands for you tonight totally deserved
Posted by: Citymariner, March 3, 2010, 7:59pm; Reply: 120
England have got black armbands on.
Posted by: marinette, March 3, 2010, 8:00pm; Reply: 121
Couldn't believe it when I heard - terribly upsetting news.
RIP Big Keith
Some players are very nondescript and you forget about them as soon as they leave the club, but Keith had his own particular style and I can still see him running with the ball or hoisting Shaun Cunnington off his feet and away from a fracas - he could sometimes be unpredictable but that, for me, made football fun to watch. After he left us, it was always nice to see him back at BP as a manager - no matter which club he was with, I couldn't quite get my head around the fact that he was the 'opposition' - he always seemed like 'one of our own' to me.
Posted by: RoboCod, March 3, 2010, 8:04pm; Reply: 122
Don't know if anyone realises but it's almost 10 years since we lost dear old Marc North (2001). Northy of course was famed for his late subs appearance away at Middlesboro for us, where he came on and grabbed two goals to send them out to a big shock defeat. I remember later a Boro report saying that the Boro centre back, a certain Gary Pallister admitted after the game that he'd been ran ragged by Big Keith. Good ol' Dusky just ground them down and let Northy pick them off.
How poignant that Towns heroic front pairing that day have both left us. (icon_sad)
Posted by: Roisteringroy, March 3, 2010, 8:21pm; Reply: 123
Alexander the man mountain had a relationship with the ball like a small man walking a big dog. Neither really sure where they were going but they got there in the end. Oh to have that level of faith in a striker today.
Given our current predicament of taking 2 seasons of relegation form to actually get relegated this awful news acts as an untimely reminder of past glories. Legend is a word all to easy to use but given the glowing tributes from the wider football family to his untimely death clearly we were truly blessed to have witnessed a true legend of the game. RIP Big Man. Thanks for dropping by.
Posted by: alvinghammariner, March 3, 2010, 8:29pm; Reply: 124
Just got in from work and heard the news, gutted. RIP big keith. :(
Posted by: Biccys, March 3, 2010, 8:36pm; Reply: 125
Posted by: ginnywings, March 3, 2010, 8:40pm; Reply: 126
Totally shocked.Only found out a couple of hours ago.
Was talking to my mate only yesterday,who is Keiths brother in law.When my mate got married a few months back,his sister and her lovely son were there.Being a Saturday,Keith was away on footy business.Very sad for her and the family.
One of the all time great Town characters and a great man.
RIP Keith.
Posted by: Limerick Mariner, March 3, 2010, 8:41pm; Reply: 127
Just got back home - absolutely shocked. A massive loss to the game - someone who made the most of very limited ability as a footballer and gave everything every time he pulled on a Town shirt. He was a key member of the squad that lifted the depression after the Ly*ns and Bobby Roberts debacles. His goals were wonderfully varied - shin at Sarfend, mishit bobble v Carlisle, superb headet at Wimbledon. Think he got the late equaliser at Scunny in the 2-2 as well. I went to about 40 games in the that promotion season and there was never a dull moment when he was on the pitch. What's more he seemed a bloody nice bloke.
I'm very very sad...
Posted by: barralad, March 3, 2010, 9:09pm; Reply: 128
Absolutely dreadful news. Footballing Legend
Not much more left to be said...R.I.P. Big Keith....
Posted by: jimdobbin, March 3, 2010, 9:15pm; Reply: 129
A sad day for football.
I never saw Keith play for Town but I did meet him on a few occasions. My family are originally from the same visit that his family now live in. Therefore, he presented the awards for our local football club and he was a true gent - very enthusiastic - no airs or graces at all.
Nice to see the England players with black armbands. I hope there is a minutes silence on Saturday.
Posted by: Abdul19, March 3, 2010, 9:20pm; Reply: 130
Posted by: Poojah, March 3, 2010, 9:31pm; Reply: 131
It's always haunting when your heroes die - makes you so much more aware of your own mortality. A man who will be sorely, sorely missed by many.
Rest in peace, big man.
Posted by: Brisbane Mariner, March 3, 2010, 9:56pm; Reply: 132
Very Sad news......loved to see him play and he was part of the Mariners spirit (that we need back) RIP Keith :o
Posted by: DavidB, March 3, 2010, 10:02pm; Reply: 133
Just to echo the many very fitting tributes and sentiments on here - such sad and shocking news, I really feel for his family, must be devastated. Hopefully in time the respect shown by so many will help them feel very proud of one of football's true gentlemen.
Posted by: kingofthekippers, March 3, 2010, 10:07pm; Reply: 134
Such a shock. God bless, rest in peace Big Keith.
Heartfelt condolences to his family.
Posted by: 1828 (Guest), March 3, 2010, 10:14pm; Reply: 135
Big moment Saturday- hope GT honour big Keith. Puts everything into perspective.
Posted by: AndyGTFC, March 3, 2010, 10:23pm; Reply: 136
Posted by: 970 (Guest), March 3, 2010, 10:31pm; Reply: 137
Only spoke to the big man after the game last week. Always had a huge smile on his face and always had time to talk football. Will be sorely missed, RIP Keith.
Posted by: ponnyfan, March 3, 2010, 10:33pm; Reply: 138
One of the games Gentlemen - Rest In Peace big man
Posted by: oldfootballer, March 3, 2010, 11:05pm; Reply: 139
Keith Alexander died today
What a tragic loss to his family which is more important than enything else, but his contributions to football were magnificent, England players tonight all had the black armbands on there shirts, that to me shows a great respectat the highest level.
One thing I do want to say is this about Keith, when I use to run the Legends bar which is when I use to get ex Town players back to talk about there career`s Keith if he was at one of these games always took part in it.
Sadly missed a great guy who I think would have loved to have taken the Town job at some time.
OLDFOOTBALLER
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 3, 2010, 11:16pm; Reply: 140
Posted by: toontown, March 3, 2010, 11:26pm; Reply: 141
RIP Big Keith. So many tributes on here that i would just like to echo, he was a player in the 88/89 season, my first full season attending and was a real character on the pitch. I have the same memories as already mentioned, what i remember most, besides the Wimbledon goal was his incredible dribbling ability, the ball seemed to be glued to his foot at times during that first season he spent with us. Am genuinely upset to hear of his passing and offer my heartfelt condolences to his family. A true and genuine Town legend, hope the club sort a fitting tribute on Saturday
Posted by: Marinermaiden, March 3, 2010, 11:37pm; Reply: 142
A truly tragic and sudden loss. He was just coming to the end of his GTFC playing days when I first started following the Mariners. RIP Big Keith - gone but never forgotten :o :o
Posted by: Theimperialcoroner, March 3, 2010, 11:41pm; Reply: 143
A man of proper class. Met Keith a few times out of GTFC and he was always a proper gentleman. A big gangly sod of a player but a real hero of AB1 team.
Thoughts with his family.
Posted by: 1106 (Guest), March 3, 2010, 11:41pm; Reply: 144
The scorer of the very first town goal I ever saw v Peterboro in the 89/90 season. I'll never forget that moment.
Posted by: sonofmadeleymariner, March 4, 2010, 3:54am; Reply: 145
terrible loss to the game RIP Big Keith Alexander lost far to soon
Posted by: dapperz fun pub, March 4, 2010, 8:39am; Reply: 146
saw big keef at a under 10s match in lincoln 2 or 3 years back,my youngest had a town top on and walked past keef he noticed the top and said great club young man........shame the present load of twits we have arent like keith,fooking legend RIP
Posted by: RoboCod, March 4, 2010, 11:22am; Reply: 147
Great picture/quotes Les. Nice one.
Posted by: BIGChris, March 4, 2010, 1:32pm; Reply: 148
Posted by: forza ivano, March 4, 2010, 2:29pm; Reply: 149
Posted by: Manchester Mariner, March 4, 2010, 2:55pm; Reply: 150
Posted by: Happy_Mariner, March 4, 2010, 6:21pm; Reply: 151
A Charlton supporting friend of mine sent me this link. The story summed up Keith. He always had time for everyone. R.I.P.
http://newyorkaddick.blogspot.com/2010/03/keith-alexander-rip.html#comments
What a fantastic read and again a testimony to a great man. A situation I'm sure we've all dreamed of; our hero showing up at the door.
Still in shock but lovely to read the thoughts of people on here and I am sure his family will take heart from how he impacted on so many people.
Posted by: Eastendmariner, March 4, 2010, 8:20pm; Reply: 152
HIS GOAL AT PLOUGH LANE, HARRY THE HADDOCK AND BIG KEITH ALEXANDER,AND ALL THE TOWN FANS BEHIND THE GOAL, FOREVER LINKED !!
TO THE BIG MAN RIP.
Posted by: mariner91, March 4, 2010, 9:47pm; Reply: 153
Posted by: Mingmariner, March 5, 2010, 6:39am; Reply: 154
Keith was the reason i used to love watching town when i was 11 years old, always remember the goal against Carlise, and Chesterfield away when it was the battle of the big lads Keith v Jamie Hewitt. RIP Keith you will always be a legend in my eyes.
Posted by: Garth, March 5, 2010, 8:40am; Reply: 155
Keith Alexander, A man above men many happy memories, RIP
Posted by: carrot top, March 5, 2010, 9:26am; Reply: 156
Posted by: forza ivano, March 5, 2010, 9:30am; Reply: 157
be nice if a few of these gtfc stories/memories could emailed to the wragg to riches site (see macc town thread below)
Posted by: Brazilnut, March 5, 2010, 9:50am; Reply: 158
wasnt just his goal against wimbeldon.....while still 1 up a cross came in and kieth rose to head it....and headed it straight back to where it came from......the wimbeldon players just looked at each other thinking ..what the fvckmis going on....if he had put that chance away we would have had um................before his untimley departure i would always describe him to my lad as a 6ft4 striker who was 6ft 2 when he jumped......often seem to bend has he jumped.....this is said with affection....it was because he wasnt perfect that he is loved so much
best quote on here and made me laugh was the one about a small man taking a large dog for a walk....to describe kieths relationship with the ball
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 5, 2010, 10:13am; Reply: 159
Aye, he was one of those rare breed of players who was taller when he was standing still than what he was when he jumped. ;D
Posted by: The_Laughing_Mariner, March 5, 2010, 11:54am; Reply: 160
I'm sure it was richard o'kelly who missed the second header
Posted by: Brazilnut, March 5, 2010, 12:55pm; Reply: 161
I'm sure it was richard o'kelly who missed the second header
you would think that.......but then again you are use to being wrong
Posted by: The_Laughing_Mariner, March 5, 2010, 1:54pm; Reply: 162
It was Richard o'Kelly, I am unanimous in that.
He certainly missed a second header by miles anyway.
I am certainly used to others, mistakingly thinking I am wrong
Posted by: Brazilnut, March 5, 2010, 2:03pm; Reply: 163
It was Richard o'Kelly, I am unanimous in that.
He certainly missed a second header by miles anyway.
I am certainly used to others, mistakingly thinking I am wrong
a unanimus vote of one....wow i am totally out numbered .......i will have to beg to differ ..and just stand aside quietly
I am right
Posted by: The_Laughing_Mariner, March 5, 2010, 2:07pm; Reply: 164
On careful consideration
no you are not
Posted by: jock dock tower, March 5, 2010, 10:47pm; Reply: 165
Will be on the terraces at Auchinleck tomorrow, as I am most weeks now for the game vs Ashfield (Scottish Junior Western Super League - same standard as mid to bottom Conference?) and will have my own personal 60 seconds silence for the BIG MAN.
Posted by: LewishamRed, March 6, 2010, 9:13am; Reply: 166
Funeral details now confirmed as at Lincoln Cathedral on 15/03/2010.
I am sure fans of all the clubs he represented can be united, only Keith could do that.
RIP Big Man.
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 6, 2010, 11:45am; Reply: 167
An excellent obituary in todays Independent.
Quoted Text
If there was a certain symmetry about the football career of Keith Alexander, in that his first club as a player, Notts County, was also the scene of his last match as a manager, there was nothing neat or clear-cut about his attempts to establish himself in the sport during an era in which racial stereotyping was widespread.
Alexander was not the first black man to become "permanent" manager of a Football League club, a distinction which fell to Tony Collins, who took charge of Rochdale between 1960 and '67. However, he was the second, and was one of only two, with Paul Ince at Milton Keynes Dons, managing in full-time football at the time of his death.
In the context of the modern game, his appointment by Lincoln City in 1993 was a landmark to rank alongside the appearance in the England team of his fellow son of Nottingham, Viv Anderson, in 1979. He was also the longest-serving black manager. Despite major health problems six years ago, he had worked in a variety of managerial roles for 17 years until his death, aged 53, in Lincoln hospital shortly after Macclesfield Town's 1-0 defeat in the city of his birth.
Alexander, who was a qualified referee, was a quietly dignified advocate of equality and spoke at forums organised by the anti-racist Kick It Out campaign. As the Sky Sports summariser Chris Kamara noted, he did not "bang the drum", preferring to be judged as a manager who happened to be black rather than a black manager.
Compared with his time as a player, which took in spells at no fewer than 20 clubs, Alexander's managerial CV proved a model of brevity. A 6ft 4in centre-forward, he did not make his first League appearance until the age of 31, with Grimsby Town, and was in his mid-thirties when he played the first of three international games for St Lucia, the island from which his parents emigrated to Britain in 1954.
Growing up in the East Midlands, Alexander had encountered what he believed to be racial hatred when a shop owned by his parents was destroyed in an arson attack. He found a measure of acceptance through his ability as a footballer, being offered trials with Notts County as a teenager. When they did not come to fruition, he embarked on a 15-year apprenticeship for his breakthrough into senior football, playing for Wisbech, Worksop, Clifton, Ilkeston, Kimberley, Alfreton, Stamford (two spells), Boston United, Kings Lynn (two spells), Spalding and Grantham.
At Wembley in 1980 he scored one of Stamford's goals when they defeated Guisborough to win the FA Vase. Stepping up to the level below the Football League with Kettering Town, he continued to score regularly, although he later recalled chillingly that he was "nearly lynched" after scoring the winning goal away to the south London club Fisher Athletic.
Barry Fry, then striving to lead Barnet into the League under the chairmanship of the infamous ticket broker Stan Flashman, signed Alexander in 1986. Over the next two seasons he was part of a side narrowly beaten to the single promotion spot, though his next move, to Grimsby in 1988, both fulfilled his ambition to play in the League and brought him under the tutelage of Alan Buckley, who he cited as his biggest influence. He kept moving on search of a regular game: next to Stockport County, then Lincoln and Mansfield, before a 15-game stint with the Belfast team Cliftonville, where the veteran became a cult figure after scoring twice in the largely Catholic club's victory over staunchly Protestant Linfield at Windsor Park.
While the historical difficulties faced by black players seeking to enter management did not deter him, nor, after he had impressed Lincoln's hierarchy by coaching the youth team, did landing the job blind him to reality. After taking over at the club, which he said had "a liberal chairman who did not look at people's colour", he proffered the opinion that "if you're black it's still twice as hard to get on in any walk of life".
Alexander started in management as he would finish, operating on a shoestring. His office at Sincil Bank contained a couch and blankets in a corner. After one season he was replaced by Sam Ellis, and when he did resurface, it was with Ilkeston and Northwich Victoria.
When his mentor, Buckley, took the helm at Lincoln, he gave Alexander the dual roles of director of football and assistant manager. To prevent the fourth-grade club entering liquidation in 2002, Buckley was released and Alexander restored to the post he had relinquished eight years earlier. This time he was successful, reaching the promotion play-offs on four consecutive occasions.
The feat was all the more remarkable given that in 2003, five months after their first play-off final defeat, he suffered a double cerebral aneurysm. After emergency surgery and six months' recuperation, he returned to his post. In 2006, after Lincoln were again beaten in the play-off final by neighbouring Grimsby, came a parting "by mutual consent".
Fry was by then the chairman at Peterborough United and promptly installed him at London Road, proclaiming the "miracles" he had performed on a "limited budget" at Lincoln. Among his signings, George Boyd (from Stevenage) and Aaron McLean (from Grays) would be instrumental in The Posh gaining successive promotions in 2007-08 and 2008-09. Alexander would not share in the triumphs, having been dismissed after only seven months and replaced by Darren Ferguson with the team lying eighth in League Two.
After a spell as Bury's director of football, he became Macclesfield's manager in February 2008. In his first full season his new charges restricted Everton, the eventual FA Cup finalists, to a 1-0 win at the Moss Rose. Alexander's resourcefulness and perseverance again came to the fore; their average attendance of 1,900 was the League's second lowest. Yet when he died following a brain haemorrhage, shortly after he had suffered from severe hiccups for three weeks, Macclesfield stood eight points clear of relegation.
Keith Alexander, footballer and manager: born Nottingham 14 November 1956; played League football for Grimsby Town, Stockport County, Lincoln City, Mansfield Town; won three caps for St Lucia, 1990; managed Lincoln City 1993-94, Ilkeston Town 1995-2000, Northwich Victoria 2000-01, Lincoln City 2002-06, Peterborough United 2006-07; Macclesfield Town 2008-10; married (three sons, one daughter); died Lincoln 3 March 2010.
Posted by: forza ivano, March 7, 2010, 12:53pm; Reply: 168
yeah was a nice obit, les.well done the independent on afull page spread with photo. a fitting tribute
Posted by: Les Brechin, March 8, 2010, 8:58am; Reply: 169
A great quote from the big man in The Mirror today.
Sent to the stands after rowing with an official, Keith managed to persuade the referee to change his mind and was told he could remain in the dugout if he "stayed inconspicuous".
Keith replied "I'm a six-foot-five black man in Macclesfield. How the hell am I going to stay inconspicuous". ;D ;D ;D
Posted by: forza ivano, March 9, 2010, 2:07pm; Reply: 170
nice little piece from simon yeo
QUOTE (Harrymcfan @ Mar 3 2010, 02:44 PM)
Simon Yeo just paid an excellent compliment to him quoted on SS. He'd know him as well as anyone.
A nice tribute from Simon Yeo. RIP Keith.
http://www.lincoln.vitalfootball.co.uk/sitepage.asp?a=190394Thanks For Everything Keith - Simon Yeo
Simon Yeo called Vital Towers today gutted that Keith Alexander the guy who gave him his big break signing him from Hyde United had passed away.
So what`s your background with Keith, Simon?
"To be honest the first time I heard his name I thought it was Crewe Alexander. When the wife gave me a message that someone Alexander had phoned my heart leapt as I had turned down a new deal at non league Hyde United and with me contract up I was looking at going to Southport. The phone then rang and I heard the dulcet tones say hello Simon you alright? Yes Dario I replied. No Simon this is Keith not Crewe he replied and we both laughed as an instant friendship grew. He realised he was getting someone who would give 100% to a gaffer who was making an ex squaddies dream come true.
Simon would never stop repaying a man who would work with him at three League sides; Simon is of course the last Imp to score over 20 goals in a season for the Imps.
"Keith was a brilliant bloke to work for and we were never short of laughs. Even though we didn`t have much money at the club he was a caring sharing gaffer except when it came to his Bourbons. Every Friday we would have the big 5-a-side game sponsored by Mars. Well Keith would bring one of those boxes of Mars bars you get at the Newsagents and he would hold them aloft while he and Simmo had their fill and say - Remember only the winners gets the Mars bars."
So what`s with the Bourbons Simon?
"Just before he disappeared on a cold January or February morning, in fact every training session rain or shine to be fair he would always say, I`m going in me office for some bourbons with a nice cup of tea. Talking of cold weather we had a night game up at Cheltenham and there`s Keith in his thermals before the game. I`ll make this short and sweet lads, it`s a beautiful day out there, enjoy yourselves. We froze in every sense of the word and lost four nil."
Was he an approachable guy?
"Yes he had a great sense of humour, well when he was in a good mood. When you said good morning gaffer and how are you and he replied, keeping me head above water as you do that meant he was in a good one. Shouting you Muppets and I`ll pay you up could be good or bad though.
Team talks?
"There was a pretty regular one actually, especially when we were doing alright. Right lads you`re a good team, you`re good players. You know who you are and you know what you`re about. I`m off for some bourbon biscuits and a nice cup of tea. Well that`s the tactics out the way then, we used to fall about laughing. To be fair I have only ever seen him lose it three times and that was never at Lincoln. It was twice at Peterborough and once at Macc. It was always the same I don`t care how big you think you are, I don`t care I`ll pay you up."
What about the famous yellow socks then?
You know I think they were the same pair and he took them everywhere with him, clubs, training, games away trips, everywhere. One night when we were staying away at a hotel, not a posh one mind, before a trip to Bournemouth or Torquay I think it was he still had the socks on and needed to wear some smart shoes. So he asks a couple of waiters what size shoes they wear. When he got one with the right size, he talked them in to letting him borrow them and then gave them back afterwards. Never a dull moment at the Imps, we never had the money but we had the laughs and a team spirit second to none thanks to the Gaffer and Simmo. If not he`d pay you up. Cheers Keith I owe you the lot mate!"
Posted by: mariner91, March 11, 2010, 12:54pm; Reply: 171
A great quote from the big man in The Mirror today.
Sent to the stands after rowing with an official, Keith managed to persuade the referee to change his mind and was told he could remain in the dugout if he "stayed inconspicuous".
Keith replied "I'm a six-foot-five black man in Macclesfield. How the hell am I going to stay inconspicuous". ;D ;D ;D
That's brilliant. I also like the story Steve Bruce told about him and his 3-3-3 formation after having a man sent off.
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