Michael Simpkins

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Michael James Simpkins (born November 28, 1978 in Sheffield, England) is an English footballer, currently playing for Retford United.

A defender by trade, Simpkins was primarily a left back but now plays in the more familiar role of central defender. Born in Sheffield, he began his professional career at [[Chesterfield FC}} after progressing through the youth team. In 2001, he moved on to Cardiff City but failed to make a significant impact on the first team at Ninian Park and had loan spells at Exeter City and Cheltenham Town.

Michael moved on to Rochdale in 2003 for what turned out to be a one year spell at the Lancashire club as he was released in the summer of 2004. He dropped into non-league, signing for Conference national side Burton Albion, making 20 appearences in the 2004-2005 season, before moving to league rivals Leigh RMI in March 2005, but he couldn't prevent Leigh's relegation at the end of the season.

Simpkins then moved closer to his native Sheffield by linking up with Worksop Town ahead of the 2005-2006 season, and spent just over a year with the Tigers, establishing himself as a first team regular, however due to his poor disciplinary record, he was released early in the 2006-2007 season after a sending off against Vauxhall Motors. Simpkins then signed for Buxton, but left the club after a change of heart very soon afterwards and instead joined Grantham Town. Michael was named captain of the gingerbreads and his impressive form for the Lincolnshire side earned a transfer bid from Conference North outfit Worcester City, but declined the offer due to travelling concerns.

Budget cuts at Grantham forced Simpkins departure in January 2008 when he subsequently signed for Retford United. Simpkins stayed with Retford in their successful title winning side of 2007-2008 and has already agreed to stay with the club for the 2008-2009 season.