Frank Burrows 1944 - 2021

SWINDON TOWN club legend Frank Burrows has today sadly passed away at the age of 77. The club confirmed the news this afternoon in a statement published on their official website that can be viewed below.

The statement on the Swindon Town website read:

Swindon Town Football Club are incredibly saddened to confirm the passing of former player, Frank Burrows.

We were informed of Frank’s passing earlier this morning, and our thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to Frank’s family and friends at this very sad time.

Frank was born in Larkhall, Scotland on 30th January 1944 and began his football career with Raith Rovers, before signing for Scunthorpe United in 1965.

After impressing for The Iron in 106 appearances, Burrows signed for Town in 1968 and immediately became a key cog at the heart of the defence alongside Club Captain, Stan Harland. Together, the formidable duo allowed just 35 goals in 46 league matches, which is an incredible feat in any era.

Frank racked up over 350 appearances for Town and was a vital part of the greatest ever season in the Club’s history in 1968-69, culminating in a promotion and that famous League Cup victory over Arsenal at Wembley. 

A hard-as-nails defender, Burrows was dominant at the back and was a master of his craft, as well as being hugely respected by his teammates and fans. 

Post playing career, Burrows went into coaching and after a stint as player-coach at The County Ground, he went on to carve out a lengthy and successful career as a coach, including spells with the likes of West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United.

He also spent a successful four-year spell as Manager of Swansea City, where he led them to victory in the 1994 Football League Trophy having previously guided Cardiff City to a promotion into the old Third Division.

In his later life, Frank was a regular visitor to The County Ground for games with former teammates John Trollope and Don Rogers, as well as his brother in-law, highlighting Frank’s commitment and love for Swindon Town.

Frank will be dearly missed by everyone at Swindon Town Football Club and, once again, our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

RIP, Frank Burrows.