Tommy Baldwin, the former Chelsea forward, passed away at the age of 78 on January 23, 2024, following a long illness. He was born in Gateshead on June 10, 1945, and began his career at Arsenal before joining Chelsea in September 1966.
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Baldwin scored 92 goals in 239 appearances for Chelsea and was a key player in the first Chelsea side to win the FA Cup in 1970.
He also helped the club lift the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1971 by beating Real Madrid after a replay.
Baldwin was known for his ability to absorb tackles, which contributed to his nickname ‘The Sponge’.
He also played in the 1967 FA Cup final and 1972 League Cup final defeats by Tottenham and Stoke, respectively.
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After leaving Chelsea in the mid-1970s, Baldwin played for Millwall and Manchester United, and had a short spell in the United States.
He later worked as a coach at Brentford and often appeared at Stamford Bridge as a matchday host.
Chelsea Football Club led the tributes to their former player, stating, “It is with enormous sadness that Chelsea Football Club announces the passing today at the age of 78 of our former forward Tommy Baldwin, following a long illness”.
The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust also paid tribute to Baldwin, expressing their condolences to his family and friends.
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