Steve Fleetwood

Steven Robert "Steve" Fleetwood (born 27 February 1962 in Sheffield, England) is an English former footballer and manager.

Career

Fleetwood started his career with Rotherham United in February 1980 on professional terms after being an apprentice at the club. He was a prodigous youngster with a seemingly bright future in the game. During an interview at a charity event in 2006, upon being asked on the top 3 young players he'd seen, the late Bobby Robson stated; 'Well there was Ronaldo obviously. And Gazza, a complete nutcase but a wonderful, wonderful talent. But in my last few months with Ipswich Town, I watched a reserve match at Millmoor. There was a young man who played just behind the front two, who looked like the ball was glued to his feet. He was lightning over the first 10 yards and he always seemed to have so much time with the ball. He absolutely ran the game that day. He could have been special.' It is widely regarded that Robson was referring to Fleetwood. He played under Ian Porterfield and was his first professional signing as a manager. He played as a professional until 1984 when he broke his leg which led to his retirement. He made another appearance in 1987 against Wigan Athletic but due to previous injury could not sign another professional contract,having failed the medical.^[1][2] He made one league appearance before going on to play for Maltby Miners Welfare.^[2]

He was appointed as manager of Maltby before the start of the 1998–99 season, but resigned at the end of the season due to work commitments.^[3]

Notes