The word ‘Legend’ can be vastly overused. But there could never be a more fitting word to use to describe Pompey’s Alan Knight who was not only a legend for the football club but also for the city of Portsmouth.
Although the former Blues goalkeeper was born in London he was one of our own. He joined Pompey as an apprentice when just 14 and made 801 appearances for the club as a player, as well as roles as a coach and ambassador in five decades of service to the club he adored.
News of his death has davastastated the city he called home, with Knightsie a well-known figure in the community, attending events and supporting local businesses.
Made an MBE in 2001, he was awarded the Freedom of the City of Portsmouth in May 2025 in recognition of his incredible dedication to the football club and the local community and the support he gave.
He was an ambassador for Pompey In the Community as well as Patron for Age UK Portsmouth, Friends Fighting Cancer (FFC) and We Are Pompey 2029 which is leading Portsmouth’s city of culture bid.
And after he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2024 he spoke openly of his battle with the disease to raise awareness, and raised around £40,000 for charity though his Alan Knight Prostate Appeal.
On Saturday a minute’s applause will take place at Fratton Park on Saturday (September 5) when Pompey take on Cardiff.
Here we look back at pictures of Knightsie from over the years - and the key role he played in both the football club and the city:
1. Alan Knight
A charity match held between Pompey Legends v Alan Knight Celebrity XI at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, on bank holiday Monday, May 5, 2025. Picture: Sarah Standing (050525-2704) | Sarah Standing
2. Alan Knight
Alan Knight pictured with former Pompey chairman Milan Mandaric who congratulated him on his MBE. | The News
3. Alan Knight
A charity match was held between Pompey Legends v Alan Knight Celebrity XI at Fratton Park, Portsmouth, on bank holiday Monday, May 5, 2025. Picture: Sarah Standing (050525-2771) | Sarah Standing
