Tony Pulis

Tony Pulis established himself as one of football’s most distinguished and results-driven managers after securing promotion for Gillingham to the First Division in his first season (1995-96), transforming a struggling team and finishing second in the Football League Third Division. During his tenure at Gillingham, which lasted until 1999, Pulis set a record for the fewest goals conceded in a 46-game Football League season with an impressive 29 clean sheets. Prior to his managerial success, Pulis embarked on a 17-year playing career as a defender, making 326 league appearances and scoring 9 goals for clubs including Bristol Rovers (1975-1981, 1982-1984), Happy Valley AA in Hong Kong (1981-1982), Newport County (1984-1986), AFC Bournemouth (1986-1989, 1990-1992), and Gillingham (1989-1990). He transitioned into management at AFC Bournemouth in 1992, initially as player/coach, maintaining the club’s league position for two seasons.

Continuing his Premier League management, Pulis took charge of Crystal Palace (2013-2014), where he earned the prestigious Premier League Manager of the Season award for leading them to an 11th-place finish. He then managed West Bromwich Albion (2015-2017), achieving a top-half finish during his tenure. In 2016, Pulis reached a significant career milestone, managing his 1,000th game as a professional manager, and was subsequently inducted into the LMA Hall of Fame in the 2016-17 season, recognizing his enduring contributions to football. His later managerial roles included Middlesbrough (2017-2019) and Sheffield Wednesday (2020), where he continued to apply his results-driven philosophy.

Pulis, who obtained his FA coaching badge at a young age and his UEFA ‘A’ license shortly thereafter, has built a legacy defined by consistent team performance and strategic acumen throughout his extensive career in professional football management. He announced his retirement from active management following his spell at Sheffield Wednesday.