Ex-Exeter, Palace and Watford keeper Miller dies

Former Exeter City, Crystal Palace, Barnsley and Watford goalkeeper Kevin Miller has died aged 57.

Miller, who had been working as Wigan Athletic‘s goalkeeping coach, passed away unexpectedly overnight on Tuesday.

He moved to the Latics over the summer to re-unite with former Exeter boss Gary Caldwell having stepped down as the Devon side's goalkeeping coach in June.

He also had playing spells at Birmingham City, Bristol Rovers, Southampton, Torquay United and Bodmin Town in his native Cornwall.

"Although Kevin's time with Latics was far too short, he quickly became a much-loved and respected member of our first team staff," Wigan Athletic said in a statement posted on their website. , external

"His experience, professionalism and passion for goalkeeping were clear for all to see, while his uplifting personality made a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.

"Kevin's contribution to football was significant, but for those who worked alongside him, it was the person he was that will be remembered most.

"Kevin was a husband, father, hugely respected colleague, dedicated coach and someone who made a genuine impact on those around him, both on and off the pitch.

"His sudden passing has left everyone at the club deeply saddened and devastated.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Kevin's wife, Fiona, daughter, Esme, close family, friends, colleagues and all who knew and loved him."

Exeter described Miller as having earned "a place in the hearts of supporters with his performances between the posts and his wholehearted commitment to the club".

"As a player, Kevin had a commanding presence and a fierce competitive spirit," his former club added , external in a tribute.

"At just 57, his passing is a huge loss to his family, friends and everyone who knew him.

"Exeter City Football Club sends its deepest condolences to Kevin's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts are also with Gary Caldwell and our former staff at Wigan Athletic.

"His time in Devon left a lasting impression on those around the club, and his contribution remains a big part of Exeter City's story.

"The club will be supporting those who were close to Kevin and will be commemorating Kevin's time with us and his memory in an appropriate way."

Having come up through the Cornish non-league scene with Newquay and Falmouth Town, he joined Exeter City in 1989, helping the club to the fourth-tier title during a 200-game spell.

He moved to Birmingham City for a season in 1993 and then had three years at Watford before moving to Premier League Palace in 1997 for a fee of £1.5m.

He played in all 38 games as Palace were relegated from the top flight in 1998 and was first choice in the Championship a year later as the Eagles finished 14th.

Miller left that summer to begin a three-year spell at Barnsley, before returning to Exeter City in 2002 for a season.

Two years at Bristol Rovers followed before short spells at Southampton and Torquay United, ending his career with 738 appearances in the professional game.