Former Millwall manager passes away

The man who guided Millwall to the topflight ‘The Doc’ has passed away.

Former Millwall manager John Docherty, who took the club to the topflight in 1988 has died at the age of 84.  

After a two-year battle with cancer, Docherty sadly passed away in hospital on Tuesday night. 

Docherty, who was known as ‘The Doc’, took over at Millwall in May 1986, replacing George Graham as he departed to join Arsenal.  

In his first season as manager, Docherty managed the likes of Brian Horne, Phil Coleman, Keith Stevens, Les Briley, Tony Cascarino and his strike partner Teddy Sheringham. 

In his second season as manager, he steered the club to promotion success as Millwall reached the topflight of English football, for the first – and only – time in the club's history.  

Phil Coleman, a Millwall player under John Docherty, told me the following “Sad news we have lost The Doc. I owe John Docherty a lot. He signed me in the summer of 1986 and over the next two seasons his decision to sign me provided me the opportunity to play a second spell in division two for the club, to play alongside great players and staff, and alongside my brother Nick (not many can say they've done that) and be a part of a squad that won promotion to the top division all for the team I support. The Doc also sorted me out a deal to play in Finland which was another brilliant experience. RIP Doc, great memories, thanks for everything.” 

John’s last words were “when’s my next match.” Showing his true dedication to Millwall Football Club. 

Jeff Burnige, former chairman of Millwall Football Club, was on the board of directors when Docherty was appointed. “John Docherty was the choice of Bob Pearson in the summer of 1986 and persuaded myself, Reg Burr and Brian Mitchell to appoint him. 

He was the manager who believed we would get to the old 1st Division. We won the Championship, then last unbeaten team the following season. Bob and Doc believed in each other. Recruitment was Bob. Team selection, motivation and tactics were Doc. Sad to lose him in March of the second season in the top flight, but his commitment to the job had worn him down. 

I had the job of telling him it was over. He never held it against me. Special man, special manager. Succeeded beyond supporters dreams. RIP, Doc. 

Millwall players and staff will wear black armbands on Saturday, and a minutes applause will be held before the game. Players from the memorable 1997/98 season will be at the match against Coventry to pay their respects.