Dean Richards (footballer)

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Dean Richards (born June 9, 1974 in Bradford) is a former English footballer. A powerful central-defender, he was signed from Southampton for Premiership side Tottenham by Glenn Hoddle in a deal worth £8.1m but was never able to realise his full potential due to persistent injury problems. He had previously played for Bradford City and Wolverhampton Wanderers during his career.

In March 2005, he announced his retirement from the game due to illness after receiving "evidence that it would be harmful to his health to continue". He said: "I am obviously deeply disappointed to be giving up the sport I love, but it's the only choice." He was suffering from frequent dizzy spells and headaches owing to an inner-ear infection.

It was rumoured that, having gained his coaching qualifications, Richards would be returning to Bradford City as a youth team coach[1], however this was denied on 24 May by one of the club's directors[2].