Tony Godden, a renowned goalkeeper, was born on August 2, 1955, in Gillingham. He made a significant impact in English football, particularly during his time with West Bromwich Albion, where he played from 1977 to 1986. Godden is remembered for his remarkable achievement of 228 consecutive appearances for the club, a record that still stands today.
On March 30, 2026, the football community was saddened to learn of Godden’s passing at the age of 70. His death was confirmed by various clubs he played for, including West Bromwich Albion, which expressed, “the thoughts of everyone at the Albion are with Tony’s friends, family and loved ones at this tragic time.” Chelsea also shared their sorrow, stating they were “greatly saddened by the death of Godden.”
Throughout his career, Godden made a total of 329 appearances for West Bromwich Albion, showcasing his skills and dedication on the field. After leaving West Brom, he joined Chelsea, where he played 38 matches from 1986 to 1987. One of his notable performances during this time was saving two penalties in a crucial 1-0 victory against Manchester United in September 1986.
In addition to his playing career, Godden contributed to the sport as a goalkeeping coach at Rushden and later joined the coaching staff at Brighton. His experience and knowledge were invaluable to the teams he worked with.
Godden’s journey also included a loan spell at Luton Town in March 1983, where he was part of the side that secured safety in a match against Manchester City. He concluded his league career at Peterborough at the age of 35, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and skill.
His contributions to football have left a lasting impression on fans and players alike. Roger Wash, a notable figure in the football community, extended condolences to Godden’s family and friends, emphasizing the impact he had on those around him.
The news of Tony Godden’s passing serves as a reminder of the rich history of football and the players who have shaped it. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of goalkeepers and football enthusiasts.