Dean Richards

Richards made 73 appearances for Spurs

Dean Richards, the former Wolves, Southampton, Bradford and Tottenham defender, has died at the age of 36.

Richards passed away on Saturday morning after losing his long-term battle with illness.
During his spell at Spurs Richards began to suffer from dizzy spells and headaches, and he was forced to retire in 2005 after taking medical advice.
In 2007 Richards was made youth-team coach at Bradford City, his hometown club and where he started his career.
A statement on the Bantams' website read: "The club are truly devastated to hear of the death of former Bradford City fans' favourite Dean Richards."
Richards' biggest transfer was his £8.1m move from Saints to Spurs in 2001, but he was to make only 73 appearances in his four years with the north Londoners.
At that time Richards was diagnosed with an inner ear infection and also underwent a scan for a brain tumour, but the results of the scan proved negative.
He was, however, advised it would be harmful to his health to continue playing and hung up his boots in March 2005.
He said at the time: "I am obviously deeply disappointed to be giving up the sport I love, but it's the only choice."

Richards joined Southampton from Wolves in 1999

Richards began his career at Bradford, before joining Wolves, where he became a firm favourite.
The Black Country club said in statement on Saturday: "Everyone at Wolves is saddened to hear of the death of Dean Richards.
"Wolves would like to take this opportunity to send their condolences to the former Molineux defender's family and friends.
"There will be a tribute paid to the defender ahead of next Sunday's game with his former club Spurs."
After four years at Molineux, Richards moved to then-Premiership side Southampton, who were managed by current Cardiff boss Dave Jones.
Richards also impressed under Jones's successor Glenn Hoddle, who took the centre-back with him to White Hart Lane in 2001. The fee was the highest for a player with no senior international caps.
But Richards, who played for England's Under-21s on four occasions, was unable to overcome injuries and illness and his career was cut short at the age of 31.
Tottenham said in a statement: "Everyone at Tottenham Hotspur was saddened to hear of the death of our former player Dean Richards.
"We extend our sincere condolences to the family of Dean Richards at this very sad time."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/9408254.stm