Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion have paid tribute to Steve Hopcroft, the well-known talent-spotter who has died after a battle with cancer. Hopcroft joined the Baggies from Birmingham City in 2004 and spent 15 years at The Hawthorns before moving to Villa in 2020.
Villa's tribute
Villa released a statement which read: “Steve was a highly respected member of staff, both within our Academy and beyond, and was hugely instrumental in bringing a host of young talent to the club through our scouting network. He joined Aston Villa in April 2020 and played an integral role in helping to shape our Boys Academy as Head of Player Talent ID. He was renowned for his ability to discover talented young players and provide them with a platform to showcase their ability at the highest level. Steve will be fondly remembered by all players and staff who worked alongside him during his time at Aston Villa and throughout his career in football.”
Villa’s academy manager Mark Harrison, who also moved from Albion to Villa, said: “Firstly, our thoughts and condolences go out to Steve’s family, especially his children Tom and Beth, his sister Sharron, his partner Kate and his stepchildren Max and Fin. Many of us who work within our Academy have known Steve and worked with him for many years, so it is an incredibly sad moment. I worked with Steve for over 20 years, and he was not only a colleague but a good friend who I could always count on. Steve had vast experience and knowledge in his field and was widely respected as being one of the best in the business. He was instrumental in the recruitment and nurturing of countless players over his time in the role, there are far too many to mention, but most notably and relevant to the club are Morgan Rogers, Lamare Bogarde, Bradley Burrowes, George Hemmings, Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba, Tim Iroegbunam, Omari Kellyman, Louie Barry, Finn Azaz and Josh Feeney. He will be sadly missed by us all and by many of the players who would not be where they are without Steve’s support.”
Albion's statement
Albion’s statement said: “West Bromwich Albion are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former staff member Steve Hopcroft. 'Hoppy', as he was affectionately known across football, joined the Baggies from Birmingham City in 2004. He led the club’s academy recruitment for more than 15 years, before joining Aston Villa in 2020. Steve was renowned for his ability to identify young talent across the West Midlands – and leaves a legacy of countless players who without him may not have found their way in the professional game. The thoughts of all at The Hawthorns are with Steve’s family, friends and loved ones at this desperately sad time.”
Another loss for Villa
Villa are also mourning the passing of Amanda Burke, after a battle with cancer. Amanda first joined Villa in 2019 and was a valued member of the Hospitality team, working as an Account Executive. She played an integral role in delivering the matchday hospitality experience at Villa Park, building strong relationships with both seasonal members and match-by-match guests.
