Nineties footie icon Chris Bart-Williams dies aged 49 as tributes flood in

At the age of 49, former Premier League player Chris Bart-Williams passed away.

Throughout his career, Bart-Williams—fondly referred to as “Bartman” by teammates and supporters—made over 400 appearances. He played for Sheffield Wednesday, Nottingham Forest, Charlton Athletic, and Ipswich after graduating from Leyton Orient’s academy.

After hanging up his boots, the former England under-21 international became a coach and founded CBW Soccer Elite, a recruitment firm in the US.

“Devastating and I’m so upset to hear the news of Trevor Francis passing and my former team mate Chris Bart-Williams, both so young, it is so sad, RIP Trevor and Chris,” tweeted former colleague Mark Crossley in response to the news of his death, which occurred on the same day as Trevor Francis’.

Another one of his old Forest teammates, former Arsenal and Everton player Kevin Campbell, said on social media: “R.I.P. Chris, love you Bartman! My little brother and I had such wonderful times together, therefore I’m really saddened by the terrible news.”

“The club is saddened to learn of the passing of former player Chris Bart-Williams,” Ipswich’s official account said. “A Blue is a Blue, forever blue.”
Bart-Williams’ Hillsborough teammate Carlton Palmer made the following statement: “I am completely taken aback by Trevor Francis, and the Bartman is at a loss for words.” Blessings and love to both families.”

Another one of his old Forest teammates, former Arsenal and Everton player Kevin Campbell, said on social media: “R.I.P. Chris, love you Bartman! My little brother and I had such wonderful times together, therefore I’m really saddened by the terrible news.”