'True gentleman', 'top man', 'thank you' - football fans mourn the passing of Pompey legend Alan Knight

Pompey fans are mourning the passing of a club legend who made over 800 appearances in over 20 years at the club.

Alan Knight passed away on Tuesday, September 1 having been battling prostate cancer since 2024. News of the 65-year-olds death has hit the Portsmouth community hard after decades of service to the football club and the city as a whole.

While the stats are impressive on their own, 801 appearances, the most by a goalkeeper for a single club, he was known for much more than what he did on the pitch. Amongst people in the city he was known as someone that always had time to say hello, stop for a photograph or give an autograph.

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He was an ever-present fixture at the club from player to coach to ambassador, whose generosity and service to the city saw him awarded with an MBE and the freedom of the city.

When news of his death was announced, fans took to social media to express their sadness as well as their gratitude for the memories he gave them.

Commenting on The News’ Facebook page Clare Phillips said “So sad. I can’t say his name without singing his chant RIP.”

While Bev Allen commented: Bev Allen said: “I am so sad to read this you were Pompey through and through. Thank you for all the good and bad days down at Fratton Park, you will always be our number one Knightsie. May you now rest in peace”

One theme was recurrent throughout the comments with many calling him a “true gentleman” and a “Pompey legend”.

Aaron Chandler said: “Heartbroken if I'm honest, he was my childhood, watched him most weeks in the 80s/90s. He truly was a legend, R.I.P Knightlier”

Carole Jarvis commented: “So sad, Alan my dear - will miss you a lot. Thank you for all your service to the club. A lovely guy.”

His appeal even crossed the South Coast divide with a number of Southampton fans sending their condolences.

One fan, Justin Burnett, said: “I'm a Saints fan but met Alan a few times, a great person and a great goalkeeper.”

One Pompey fan, Joanna Nichols, summed up the sentiments calling Knight a “true blue thorough and through”.

While Teresa Upton said: “You will be sadly missed by everyone who knew you and more”.