Barnsley FC’s tribute to Carlisle United’s David Wilkes

Barnsley, where Wilkes started his career, have expressed their sympathies following his passing at 59.

Wilkes came through the youth ranks at Oakwell and made 17 first-team appearances for the Tykes.

The midfielder, after playing for his home-town club from 1981-84, then moved on and, in their tribute, Barnsley wrote: “His playing days took him to Hong Kong, where he was a runner up for Harps FC in their version of the FA Cup Final. After a ban on overseas players, Dave returned to England and had spells with Stockport County and Carlisle United. 

We are saddened to learn of the recent passing of former player Dave Wilkes.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.

— Barnsley FC (@BarnsleyFC) June 23, 2023

“It was with the latter that Wilkes enjoyed much of his coaching career. He was involved in the youth setup at Brunton Park before stepping up to the first team underneath another Barnsley man in Mick Wadsworth. 

“He had spells in caretaker charge of the Cumbrians, before stints with both Newcastle United and Huddersfield Town. In 2005 he returned to Carlisle, leading their Centre of Excellence, whilst for the much of the last 17 years he’s held various positions at the club, most recently as Head of Coaching within United’s academy system.

“Our thoughts as a club are with all of Dave’s family, friends and colleagues at this enormously difficult time.

“Once A Red, Always A Red.”