Former Portsmouth and Southampton star Jon Gittens dies, aged 55
FORMER Portsmouth and Southampton star Jon Gittens has died, aged 55.
Tributes have poured in for the ex-Middlesbourgh, Torquay United and Exeter City defender.
Gittens started his career with Southampton in 1985 before he left to join Swindon Town just two years later.
He signed for his second spell with the Saints in 1991 before he joined Middlesborough after a loan spell in 1992.
Southampton wrote on Twitter: "We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of former #SaintsFC player Jon Gittens, aged 55.
"Everyone at the club sends their condolences to Jon's family and friends at this time."
He made 24 appearances for Boro and helped the club gain promotion to the Premier League.
Gittens scored the equaliser against Wolves on the last day of the season before Paul Wilkinson scored the winner to book their spot in the top flight.
Middlesbrough's club website read: "Our thoughts and condolences are with Jon's family and friends at this time."
The defender then made the move to Portsmouth in 1993 - where he made 99 appearances and scored two goals.
He cemented his spot in the first team during his first two seasons before he decided to continue his career with Torquay in 1996.
Pompey's website read: "The thoughts of everyone at Portsmouth Football Club are with Jon's family and friends at this difficult time."
After a spell with Torquay, he played for Exeter City, Nuneaton Borough and enjoyed a loan spell with Dorchester Town.
He went on to manage Fareham Town for two years before he took charge of Blackfield and Langley from 2007 until 2010.
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Current Swindon Town Academy manager Alan McLoughlin paid tribute to his former team-mate.
He said: "Can't believe to hear that Gitto has passed away.
"Three clubs we shared together, hundreds of games together, thousands of hours training and travelling with our team-mates.
"Thank you for all the memories Gitto x."
The club is devastated to hear news of the passing of former defender, Jon Gittens.
Jon made 165 appearances for the club between 1987 and 1991 achieving promotion in 1990.
Gone too soon. Never forgotten.
😢#STFC 🔴 pic.twitter.com/qAPCN7C0td
— Swindon Town Football Club (@Official_STFC) May 11, 2019ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7tbTErKynZpOke7a3jqynqKqkZLOwu9ObmKWkX259dn6Sbmtonp%2Bnuqa%2BjKmmq6yjory2wMdmqqitpJ2urrzTqKVmop%2Bjeqi1062cp6tdmbamv4xubGg%3D