**Ryan Reynolds Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Wrexham Legend Joey Jones**
Wrexham AFC and the wider football community are today mourning the loss of club icon Joey Jones, who has died at the age of 70. The former left-back, widely admired for his dedication and impact both on and off the field, leaves behind a legacy deeply interwoven with the Welsh side’s history.
Hollywood actor and Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds led tributes to Jones, sharing his thoughts alongside a photograph featuring himself, co-owner Rob McElhenney, and the former defender. Reynolds took to Instagram to express his sadness, stating, “I’m really glad I got to spend time with you,” and offering condolences to Jones’ family, friends, and close companion and ex-teammate Mickey Thomas. In his trademark heartfelt style, Reynolds closed, “Rest up, Joey. Big second half coming up,” capturing the affection Wrexham fans and club members alike held for the player.
Joey Jones was more than just a familiar face at the Racecourse Ground; he was a bona fide club legend. Born in Llandudno, he debuted for Wrexham at just 17, making a remarkable 479 appearances for the club across three spells. His on-pitch prowess soon saw him join Liverpool in 1975 for £110,000, a significant sum at the time, where he went on to become part of the club’s folklore.
During his stint at Anfield, Jones lifted the First Division title and UEFA Cup. His connection with Liverpool was immortalised in a playful yet legendary European Cup final banner that read: “Joey Ate The Frogs Legs, Made The Swiss Roll, Now He’s Munching Gladbach.” Such memorable moments cemented his place in fans’ hearts.
Jones returned to his Welsh roots when Wrexham re-signed him for a then-club record of £210,000, a figure that stood until Reynolds and McElhenney’s headline-grabbing purchase of striker Ollie Palmer in 2022. Following this, Jones moved on to Chelsea, where he secured the Second Division title, and later to Huddersfield Town, even receiving the accolade of Player of the Year.
His affinity with Wrexham remained unbroken as he had a third spell at the club, hanging up his boots in 1992. Even after retiring, Jones continued to give back, working as a youth coach and briefly stepping in as caretaker manager during a period of managerial transition. Despite enduring heart surgery in 2002, he returned two decades later as a U18 ambassador, continuing to shape new generations.
Wrexham AFC have confirmed they will pay permanent tribute to Joey Jones by commissioning a statue in his honour. This will be placed in the public square outside the new Kop Stand, ensuring his contribution is celebrated by future generations of fans. The club emphasised that this gesture is part of broader memorial plans to ensure Jones’ legacy is never forgotten.
The outpouring of admiration and respect from across the football world is testament to the mark Joey Jones left on his clubs and supporters. For many, he epitomised the dedicated spirit of football, holding a special place in Wrexham’s storied history.
Ryan Reynolds’ moving words on social media reflect the sentiment of not only those at the club today, but also of the wider football community who recognised Jones as more than just a player—he was a symbol of commitment and passion.
As tributes continue to flow, supporters, friends, and former colleagues alike will pause to remember a true footballing servant whose influence on the beautiful game, particularly in Wales, will be felt long into the future.