Former Fulham Goalkeeper John Vaughan Dies at 62 After Career in Football and Coaching

Former Fulham goalkeeper John Vaughan has died at the age of 62, prompting tributes from clubs where he played and later worked as a coach.

Fulham announced his death in a statement published on its official X account on Thursday, October 22, 2026. The club expressed sadness over his passing and sent condolences to his family, friends and former teammates.

Vaughan spent two seasons at Craven Cottage between 1986 and 1988, making 44 league appearances for Fulham. He joined the club from West Ham United and became a regular starter before losing his place following the arrival of goalkeeper Jim Stannard.

During his time with Fulham, Vaughan won the club’s Supporters’ Player of the Year award. He was also in goal during the team’s 10-0 defeat to Liverpool in the Littlewoods Cup, a result remembered as one of the difficult moments of his spell at the club.

After leaving Fulham in 1988, Vaughan joined Cambridge United, where he enjoyed a significant period of his playing career. He made 231 appearances in all competitions over five seasons and helped the club secure successive promotions between 1989 and 1991.

Vaughan later represented Charlton Athletic, Preston North End and Lincoln City before retiring from playing. He subsequently moved into coaching, specialising in the development of goalkeepers and working with several clubs across English football.

His coaching career included spells with York City, Macclesfield Town, Grimsby Town, Huddersfield Town, Birmingham City, Barnsley and Bradford City. At the time of his death, he was working as an academy coach at Sheffield United.

Fulham and Cambridge United paid tribute to Vaughan, recognising his contributions during their respective periods with him. His career spanned playing and coaching roles, leaving him connected to several clubs across the English football system.