Torquay United AFC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of its legendary manager, Frank O’Farrell.
Following a distinctive playing career representing the likes of West Ham, Preston NE and Republic of Ireland, Frank arrived at Plainmoor in May 1965 after leading non-League Weymouth to the Southern League championship, and duly repeated that by bringing immediate success to his new Club.
Frank oversaw a period of unbridled success at Plainmoor during his first of three spells of manager of the Club, leading United to promotion from Division Four during his first season in charge, before establishing the side in the league above, posting finishes of 7th and 4th, prior to departing Torquay for First Division Leicester City in December 1968.
Despite already being condemned to relegation, only a few months after his appointment, O’Farrell led a rejuvenated City side to the 1969 FA Cup Final, where they narrowly missed out on silverware following a 1-0 defeat by Manchester City. That temporary setback aside, he continued to rebuild the side, and after securing a return to the top-flight via Second Division promotion in 1970/71, it was Frank who was chosen for arguably the most prestigious job in football in 1971, as he was personally selected by outgoing Manchester United manager Matt Busby as his successor at Old Trafford.
After moving on to Cardiff, international success would follow as manager of the Iranian national side, who went on to not only win the Gold Medal at the Asian Games of 1974, but also qualify for the 1976 Montreal Olympics.
During what was a particularly difficult spell at Torquay United in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Frank would go on to answer the Club’s SOS call twice more, either side of a stint at United Arab Emirati club Al-Shaab. Although his final season as boss at Plainmoor in 1981/82 would also prove to be his last managerial role, his huge experience and knowledge of the game would continue to be utilised for well over a decade later, as he was employed as a scout for the likes of Everton and Bolton.
In retirement, Frank continued to live in Torquay, and in later life, ran a Devon nursing home with his beloved wife, Ann, whilst also remaining a regular visitor at United on matchdays.
Having achieved so much at Torquay United AFC, and having laid the foundations for many of its later successes, Frank O’Farrell’s status as a Club legend is unquestionable, and although his passing leaves a void that will never be filled, we remain privileged that such a large and successful part of his career was spent at our Club.
Thanks for the memories, Frank.
The thoughts, prayers and condolences of everybody at Torquay United AFC go out to all of Frank’s family and friends at this very sad time.