Swans mourn loss of Russell Coughlin
4th August
Everyone at Swansea City is saddened to hear of the passing of former player Russell Coughlin.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Russell, who was born in Swansea and played for his home-city club between 1990 and 1993.
Russell, who was just 56, played 133 times for the Swans, scoring three goals.
Ex-Swans skipper John Cornforth, who played alongside Russell at the Vetch, has paid a glowing tribute to his fellow midfielder.
"I am gobsmacked - this is such sad, sad news," he said.
"Russell was a great lad who was very popular during his time at Swansea. He was an absolute diamond of a man who had a wicked sense of humour and always had a wicked smile on his face.
"He was an amazing passer of the ball. I don't think I ever played with anyone who could ping a ball like he did.
"He was a great player and a great friend."
A former Bishop Vaughan School pupil, Russell signed his first professional deal with Manchester City but made his league debut for Blackburn Rovers.
He then had a successful stint at Carlisle United before spells at Plymouth Argyle, Blackpool and Shrewsbury Town.
Terry Yorath brought him to Vetch Field in 1990, and he was part of the side who reached the Second Division play-offs in 1993.
Russell then had spells at Exeter and Torquay before moving back up to Carlisle.
Swansea City Football Club would like to pass on its thoughts and condolences to Russell's family and friends at this sad time.
