Mike Flanagan (footballer)

Michael "Mike" Flanagan (born Ilford, Essex, November 9, 1952^[1]) is an English former professional footballer and manager. He most recently worked as assistant manager of Margate, a post he left in July 2007.^[2][3]

Flanagan made his debut for Charlton Athletic in the 1971-72 season and formed a successful partnership with Derek Hales, although the pair were once sent off in an FA Cup tie for fighting with each other.^[4]

During the summer of 1978 Flanagan crossed the Atlantic and signed for the New England Tea Men of the NASL, and subsequently scored 30 goals in 28 league appearances. He also won the MVP award (Most Valuable Player) for the 1978 season.^[5]

In summer 1979 he joined Crystal Palace for £650,000 where he played 56 games scoring 8 goals. December 1980 saw him join Queens Park Rangers. He was capped three times by England 'B', scoring once.^[6] Whilst at QPR he played in the 1982 FA Cup Final.

In the 1990s after Flanagan had retired, he managed Gillingham,^[7] and his manager at Margate was one of the players who played under him at Priestfield, Robin Trott. He also had a spell as manager of Waterford United.^[8]

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