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The club has announced that Stan Bowles, a former forward for QPR, has passed away at the age of 75 after a prolonged struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Bowles began his professional journey as a trainee at Manchester City, eventually moving on to join Fourth Division team Crewe and later Carlisle.
Following his move to QPR in 1972, Bowles played in 315 league matches, scoring a total of 97 goals in the span of seven years. During this time, he was also a member of the team that placed second to Liverpool in the previous First Division under the leadership of Dave Sexton in 1975-76.
According to an official statement from QPR, we are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of QPR legend Stan Bowles. He passed away this evening (Saturday) at the age of 75.
Our minds are with his loved ones during this challenging time. May he find peace in his eternal rest.
The club will announce the details of how we plan to honor Stan at a later time.
Known for his exceptional talent and unconventional style, Bowles made the move to Nottingham Forest under the management of Brian Clough in 1979. However, after just one year, he transferred to Second Division team Leyton Orient.
Bowles, despite being skilled, only earned five appearances on the England national team. His sole goal for the team was scored against Wales at Ninian Park in 1974.
Bowles ended his time as a player in west London with Brentford and retired in 1984. He then began doing after-dinner speaking and working as a pundit, as well as writing a betting column. In his autobiography published in 1996, he disclosed the extent of his drinking, womanizing, and gambling while he was a player.
After learning about his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Bowles returned to Manchester to receive care from his oldest daughter, Andria.
In 2017, QPR held a charity game in recognition of Bowles, facing off against Bournemouth in order to collect donations for his ongoing medical expenses.
Source: independent.co.uk
