ABOUT CYRILLE

Cyrille’s career spanned 20 years from 1975, the bulk of that time spent around the West Midlands where he famously broke through at West Brom before winning his one major club honour at Coventry City – the FA Cup in 1987 – and serving Aston Villa and Wolves.

In a region of intense rivalry, it is unusual for players to be welcomed by all fans – but Cyrille was a rare exception such was the esteem and respect he earned throughout football.

This was partly because of his powerful, fast and thrilling centre-forward play, which led to five England caps, but also because of his prominent role in the fight against racism during his career.

But Cyrille also became a pioneering figure in the fight to drive racism from the football terraces while inspiring future generations of black footballers in the UK and beyond.

He handled the hostility of that era with grace and calm and became a national figurehead in the fight against racism.

Following retirement from the game, Cyrille became an accredited  agent with one of the world’s biggest sports agencies, Stellar Group. 

And it was here Cyrille ultimately found his natural place guiding and advising the young players starting out in the game. 

It was a role he relished and which would provide the inspiration for the formation of the Trust following his sudden passing in January 2018. 

Cyrille’s faith became a vital feature of his later years, triggered by the shock of the death of his old footballing partner, Laurie Cunningham, in a car accident in July 1989. Laurie was just 33.  

Cyrille became a born again Christian, attending the Renewal Christian Centre in Solihull with his wife Julia until the day he died and finding fresh purpose and peace from his relationship with God. 

“I have learned money cannot buy you peace of mind,” he realised, “but the great thing is anyone can have the peace I have … you just need to know God.” 

Cyrille’s sudden death shortly before his 60th birthday sent profound shockwaves and genuine grief reverberating around the football world.

He was the subject of special memorial services at The Hawthorns, home of West Brom, and Coventry Cathedral at which old teammates, managers, family and supporters spoke movingly of his impact on their lives.

An England international was dedicated to Cyrille while figures from all over football gathered at the first Hawthorns match following his passing to pay their respects in a memorable tribute.