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You are most welcome to use the information throughout this web site including detail from the profiles below but it is requested that you include an acknowledgement to www.silkmenarchives.org.uk

 

Gale Arthur Reuben

1938-39 Centre-forward

CL    League 29 Apps 12 Goals    Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 29 October 1938 Manchester North End (Home)

As a native of Salford he first played for South Salford Lads Club and then Sedgeley Park before playing for Bury (1925-26 to 1928-29), Chester (1930-31), West Bromwich Albion (1931-32 to 1935-36) and Chester again (1936-37 to 1937-38)

Arthur signed for Macclesfield in October 1938 going straight into the side and was almost ever present for the remainder of the season. He was the season's top-scorer with 12 goals in a low scoring season, scoring two goals in the home match against Altrincham and in both the home and away fixtures against Hurst. Also played wartime football at Accrington Stanley and Altrincham.

On retiring from playing became involved with the Northern Nomads and in July 1948 was appointed reserve team manager at Altrincham, a post he left in February 1953 after a disagreement with the Board.  Returned to Altrincham in 1955 as assistant manager. He was also a football scout discovering several players who later had a Football League career.

Away from football was a school teacher rising to the role of Hedmaster at Lower Kersal Primary School in Salford.

Born: 16 November 1904. Died Q2 1976.

 

Gale Terry

1977-78 Defender

NPL    League 8(0)0

Debut 5 October 1977 Bangor City (Home)

 

A reserve team player who was used as back-up mainly in October and November 1977.

 

Galgani Albert

1927-28 Goalkeeper

CL     League 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 14 January 1928 Ashton National (Home)

Previously played for Hyde United and probably New Mills, he deputised for two matches when the regular 'keeper, F Mace, was ill. Unfortunately he conceded ten goals in his two matches, however in his defence, these appearances came in the middle of a sequence of twelve matches when the Silkmen failed to earn a single win.

 
 
 
   

Galgani

1934-35 Right-back 

CL    League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 1 October 1934 Tranmere Rovers Reserves (Home)

Previously with Bollington Athletic, he was a member of the Macclesfield reserve team who made one senior appearance when Thomas Thornley was unavailable.

 

Gallagher Paul

1977-78 Forward

NPL    League 2(1)0   Cups 3(0)0

Debut 14 September 1977 Boston United (Home)

There is no information recorded for this player.

 

Gannon John

1976-77 Forward

NPL    League 17(0)1    Cups 4(0)0

Debut 1 January 1977 Altrincham (Away)

John played for Bangor and Northwich before signing for the Silkmen during the 1976-77 season. He was a versatile player who could play up front or in defence.  On leaving Macclesfield he moved to Hyde United.

 

Gardiner Mark

Mark Gardiner

1995-96 to 1997-98

Conf   League 34(5)2   Cups 21(2)2

Debut 24 October 1995 Runcorn (Away)

FL       League   7(0)2    Cups 1(0)0

Debut 13 September 1997 Swansea City (Home)

Mark was an apprentice at Swindon Town where he signed his first professional contract in October 1984 (10 league appearances, one goal), moving to Torquay United in February 1987 (49 appearances, four goals) and Crewe Alexandra in August 1988 (194 appearances, 33 goals) before spending the summer of 1995 with Norwegian side Fredrikstad.

On returning to England he signed for Macclesfield Town.  Mark had a very successful time with the Silkmen earning English semi-pro honours, named in the Conference Team of the Year, gained a FA Trophy winners' medal in 1996 and was a member of the Conference championship side in 1996-97 which gained promotion to the Football League.   A useful midfielder by trade, Mark also played at left-back, but during the Silkmen’s first season in the Football League (1997-98) he sustained a number of niggling injuries and made a decision to return to non-League football.

He signed for Northwich Victoria in December 1997 and then Leek Town in October 2000 but within a month the current manager was sacked and Mark took over as manager but his stay only lasted until January 2001 when he left at a time when he had been told to cut his wage bill.  Almost immediately he joined Nantwich Town as a player. Played for TC Exiles in 2006 after which he retired from playing.

Having retired from football he now lives in Cirencester and works for the Royal Mail.

Born: 25 December 1966.

 

Garside George

1911-12 and 1912-13 Right-half

ML     League 1 App 0 Goals

LC      League 10 Apps 1 Goal     Cups 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 23 March 1912 Fleetwood (Home)

Made six appearances for the Lancashire Combination team at the end of the 1911-12 season which must have proved successful as he was signed for the Macclesfield reserve team for the 1912-13 when he also made a handful of appearances for the senior side.

During war service represented his battery at football assisting them to win the brigade championship. Subseqently lost his life in the conflict.

 
 
 
 
   

Garside

1926-27 Right-back

 

CL     League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 30 April 1927 Northwich (Away)

 

Together with two other local players given a one match end-of-season trial in the away match at Northwich.

   

Garside

1986-87

NPL    League 0(1)0

Debut 23 August 1986 Morecambe (Home)

There is no information recorded about this player.

 

Gascoigne Thomas Clinton 'Tom'

Gascoigne_TC

1928-29 and 1930-31 Right-half

CL    League 15 Apps 5 Goals    Cups 9 Apps 2 Goals

Debut 25 August 1928 Hurst (Home)

Initially played for Burraden Colliery then joined his native team Scotswood (May 1920), Leeds United (May 1921, 20 League appearances), Doncaster Rovers (June 1924, 55 League appearances, three goals), Bradford City (March 1926, 21 League appearances, one goal) and Tranmere Rovers Reserves (September 1927)

Signed by Macclesfield in the summer of 1928 he was ever-present in the side until the end of October 1928 when he was injured, however, he recovered to feature in three  matches  at the end of November and the beginning of December but was injured for a second time. He was reinstated for two matches in March but missed the whole of the 1929-30 season recovering from injury.  Nevertheless he was a big favourite of the supporters, a good distributor of the ball and good at taking free-kicks. He returned at the start of the 1930-31 season for two matches scoring in the first match of the season but was transferred to Hurst in October 1930.

Born: 4 November 1899, Scotswood.  Died: 1991

   

Gaskell Arthur

1911-12 to 1913-14 Defender

ML     League 1 App 0 Goals

LC      League 12 Apps 1 Goal

Debut 2 December 1911 Hurst (Home)

 
 
 
 

A native of Bollington initially played for Bollington United and Bollington St John's, Gaskell moved to Macclesfield in November 1911 from Bolton Wanderers where he had made 107 senior appearances and scored two goals from 1904-05 to 1909-10 playing at right half. Described as a cool player who was a precise tackler filling either the right-half or centre-back positions.

He had a difficult start at Macclesfield as he was injured on his debut and, on his return at the end of December 1911, he was injured again.

Gaskell left Macclesfield to take up a coaching role with a Moscow club returning to the side on 8 March 1913.   His one goal came in his third match after his return in the 2-2 home draw against Hurst in March 1913 when he incurred another injury. He made four appearances in November 1913 but then it was reported that he had left Macclesfield to join an unnamed Football League club.

Went on to manage Croatian side HSK Gradanski Zagreb between 1921 and 1924 with whom he won the inaugural Yugoslav Football Championship in1923.

Born: 26 April 1896, Died 1 September 1944.  At the time of his death he was the proprietor of two hairdressing businesses in Rochdale.

   

Gaskell George

Gaskell_George

1884-85, 1887-88 to 1891-92 and 1894-95 to 1895-96 Full-back

#TC     League 53 Apps 0 Goals      Cups 15 Apps 0 Goals

Debut - 1 November 1884 Goldenhill (Away)

A long serving and rock solid full-back who first played for Macclesfield in the 1884-85 season in their pre-league days.

In the 1890-91 season Gaskell was the subject of a suspension. In September 1890 he should have made an appearance for Stockport County but featured for Macclesfield in a match against Leek. However, Gaskell was registered with the English FA as a Stockport County Player, and the committee held the FA's receipt to this effect. Macclesfield pleaded that Gaskell had been playing with them for seven years, and by some way or other had been induced to sign for County.  He was perfectly in his senses when he signed and was very willing.  Following a Football Association meeting in Chancery Lane at the end of September 1890, Macclesfield were censured for violation of the rules in playing Gaskell against Leek, knowing him to be a professional for another club,  Stockport County. (He also played for Macclesfield in a match against Northwich Victoria on 27 September 1890). Gaskell was suspended until 1 January 1891. Subsequently the Cheshire County Committee were annoyed at a claim in the media that they had objected to Macclesfield paying George Gaskell three shillings to act as groundsman (it would appear that at this time when a player featured for two clubs the one for which he was not registered paid him as a groundsman) and go on to state that there is no truth in the statement. John Earles, a recognised historian in the town of Macclesfield as a whole including football issues, in his book about Macclesfield FC refers to this incident. Just to add some confusion to this incident, correspondence (the standing of the correspondent is unknown) in the Alderley & Wilmslow Advertiser refers to Gaskell being paid for checking tickets at the Macclesfield ground and states that he had not been suspended from earning a living by the English Association.

Gaskell had played for County from 7 September to 14 September 1889, 4 January to 18 January 1890 and featured again after his suspension from 3 January to 25 April 1891. He then returned to Macclesfield for the 1891-92 season before returning to Stockport playing from 3 September 1892 to 14 April 1894. Returned again to Macclesfield for the 1894-95 and 1895-96 seasons before moving to Oldham County for the 1896-97 season.

Held a winners' medal for Macclesfield for the Cheshire Senior Cup for 1889-90 (the first occasion Macclesfield won the Cup) and 1895-96.

(Thanks go to both Greger Lindberg and Ian Watts for their considerable help in compiling this profile)

 

   

Gate William Henry

1912-13 Inside-left 

LC    League 2 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 14 September 1912 Witton Albion (Away)

Started his career with Newton Heath Reserves (October 1899) before moving to Darwen (March 1900), Blackburn Rovers (August 1901), Darwen (August 1902), Southport Central (May 1906), Chorley (June 1910), Hyde (July 1911) and Tranmere Rovers (January 1912)

Signed for Macclesfield in the summer of 1912 featuring in early season matches for both the senior and reserve teams.

Left Macclesfield in January 1913 to join Rossendale United moving to Newton Heath Athletic in August 1913.

 
 
 
   

Gay

1900-01 Right-half

 

#ML     League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut - unknown due to missing match information

 

There is no information recorded about this player.  Only one appearance has been identified when Gay featured in the match at Buxton on 16 February 1901, but with information missing it is possible that he made additional appearances.

   

Gay Geoff

Gay_Geoff

1978-79 to 1982-83 and 1985-86 Forward

NPL    League 114(8)11    Cups 31(2)6

Debut 7 October 1978 South Liverpool (Home)

Geoff was an apprentice at Bolton Wanderers before signing professional forms in January 1975 although he never made a senior appearance for Bolton.  He spent time on loan at Exeter City in March 1977 (six appearances) and signed for Southport in August 1977 (40 appearances, five goals), but when they fell out of the League Geoff moved to Wigan Athletic (who had replaced Southport in the Football League) making his one and only appearance for them in their first ever home Football League game.

Signed for Macclesfield in October 1978 but left after just five appearances moving to Bangor City and then Crewe Alexandra before returning to Macclesfield in September 1979. He was a very skilful and exciting ball player. Geoff’s debut for the club came in a match abandoned through floodlight failure but in his next match he scored two goals in the 3-2 home win against South Liverpool. In his time at the club, he featured most regularly in 1979-80 scoring four goals in 40 appearances, but in December 1982 he  sustained a broken leg in the home match against Witton Albion.

He later played for Mossley, Droylsden and Chorley before returning for the 1985-86 season to Macclesfield, re-signing for Mossley in the summer of 1986 and moving to Horwich RMI in October 1986.

Away from football, Geoff was a civil servant working for the Employment Department.

Born: 4 February 1957.

 

Geddes Robert

1919-20 Centre-forward

CL     League 1 App 1 Goal

Debut 25 October 1919 Mossley (Away)

 
 
 

Started out with Norman Athletic and then Hurst before signing for Bolton Wanderers (August 1916) going on loan to Manchester City (December 1916).

At Macclesfield he was given a one match trial and even though he scored the goal in the 1-1 draw, like so many other players during the 1919-20 season, he was not given a contract.

Returned to Hurst in December 1919 and then played for Stalybridge Celtic (May 1921, six League appearances, two goals) and Chorley (August 1922).

Born:1899, Salford.

   

Gee

1931-32 Goalkeeper

 

CL     League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 7 November 1931 Sandbach Ramblers (Away)

 

A former Congleton goalkeeper, deputised for the regular Macclesfield 'keeper Stanley Starling on one occasion in the 2-1 win against Sandbach Ramblers.

   

Gee Daniel 'Danny'

Gee_Danny

1996-97 Defender

Conf    League 0(1)0    Cups 3(4)0

Debut 21 January 1997 Sub Kidsgrove Athletic (Home) Staffordshire Senior Cup R3

Before signing for Macclesfield Danny had played for Witton Albion (two appearances), Barnton and Caernarfon Town.

Signed for Macclesfield Town in January 1997 and whilst most of Danny’s appearances were in minor cup competitions, including gaining a winners' medal in the Staffordshire Senior Cup in 1996 when he was introduced from the substitutes' bench, his one appearance in the Vauxhall Conference came in the historic Championship winning match at Kettering Town on 3 May 1997, when he was a second half replacement for Mark Bradshaw.

He went on to play for Winsford United, Barnton and returned to Witton Albion (50 appearances, ten goals). 

Away from football,  Danny joined the Police Force.

 

German David 'Dave'

Dave German

1995-96 Defender

Conf    League 11(0)0    Cups 1(3)0

Debut 28 August 1995 Dagenham & Redbridge (Home)

A former Sheffield schoolboys’ captain, Dave spent his youth career at Sheffield Wednesday before signing for Halifax Town where he spent five seasons (1990-1995) making 106 appearances and scored six goals.  Whilst there he gained Yorkshire and Humberside County Cup Winners’ medals  in 1990 and 1993.

Signed for Macclesfield in the summer of 1995 with all his appearances coming early in the season at a time when he had strong competition from Stuart Locke and Cec Edey. Whilst at Macclesfield he spent a short time on loan at Ashton United in 1996 (one appearance, one goal) and at Winsford United.

On leaving Macclesfield he signed for Winsford United on a permanent basis (1996-99), then played for Leigh RMI (1999-2002), Stalybridge Celtic (2002-2005 - 121 appearances, 2 goals), Ashton United (2005-06 - 11 appearances, one goal), Hyde United (2006-07 - 55 appearances, one goal), Curzon Ashton (2007 but no senior appearances), Chorley (2007-08 - 45 appearances, three goals), ending his career at FC Halifax Town in 2008.

Also played for the Fire Brigade team.

Born: 16 October 1973.

 

Gibbons

1946-47 Outside-right

CL    League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 7 September 1946 Droylsden (Away)

One of many players given a trial in Macclesfield's first season after the Second World War.

   

Gibson

1985-86

NPL     League 0(1)0

Debut 24 August 1985 Sub Goole Town (Away)

Nothing is known about this player other than he replaced Peter Hall in the 80th minute at Goole.

   

Gibson Liam

Gibson_Liam

2014-15 Defender

NC     Cups 1(1)0

Debut 27 January 2015 FC Hyde (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup Round 1

At Bolton Wanderers from 2012 to 2014, initially with the  Under 18 team and then their Under 21 Development team which he captained.

Signed for Macclesfield in the summer of 2014 but his appearances were limited to the Cheshire Senior Cup competition, gaining a winners' medal in the final. Whilst with Macclesfield spent time with Stockport Sports FC, Witton Albion and Mossley on non-contract forms. Also had a trial with FC United of Manchester in October 2014.

On leaving Macclesfield at the end of the 2014-15 season underwent a trial with Barrow before signing for New Mills in August 2015 and, under the dual registration scheme, also signed for AFC Fylde in September 2015. Then played for Ramsbottom United (October 2015), Colwyn Bay (January 2016) and Chadderton (October 2016).  Underwent a trial with Stalybridge Celtic in July 2017 but does not appear to have signed for them.

Away from football in 2015-16 he was a distributor for Organo and a personal trainer for PureGym, and since August 2016 has been a trainer for JDGyms.

Born: 17 November 1995.

   

Gibson William 'Billy'

1931-32 Right-back

CL       League 10 Apps 0 Goals       Cups 3 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 29 August 1931 Hyde United (Away)

Commenced his career at Glossop in November 1926, moving to Leeds United Reserves, Blackpool (May 1928) and Southend (May 1930).

Signed on a free transfer in the summer of 1931 he played in every match until the middle of October 1931 when he retired from playing football to take up a full time position in the Manchester Fire Brigade.

 

Gilfillan D

Gilfellan_J

1913-14 Right-half

LC     League 21 Apps 9 Goals     Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 20 December 1913 Nantwich (Away)

Signed from Altrincham, Gilfillan was ever-present from his debut to the end of the 1913-14 season.  He scored on his debut in the 1-2 loss with four of his goals coming from the penalty spot.

   

Gill

1913-14 Inside-right

 

LC     League 2 Apps 1 Goal

 

Debut 6 September 1913 Crewe Alexandra (Home)

 

Prior to signing for Macclesfield played for Bury. Only appeared in the opening two matches of the 1913-14 season with no record of him playing in the reserve team.

   

Gillies Ken

1938-39 Centre-forward

CL    League 15 Apps 6 Goals    Cups 3 Apps 2 Goals

Debut 27 August 1938 Buxton (Home)

Previously with Buxton where it was reported that Ken was one of the most dangerous forwards in the Cheshire League at the time. He used his skills well at Macclesfield in the opening matches of the 1938-39 season as a robust, bustling player scoring on his debut, two goals in the FA Cup and one at Rhyl, before incurring a knee injury in the middle of September. On recovering he made two further appearances, but by then Arthur Gale had signed and went on to make the centre-forward position his own.  Ken's appearances were limited for the remainder of the season, but he still managed to appear on the score sheet finishing as the season second top-scorer

   

Gillott Norman

Gillott

1950-51 to 1955-56 Left-back

CL   League 163 Apps 1 Goal   Cups 30 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 19 August 1950 Buxton (Home)

With Manchester City Reserves after which he signed for Altrincham.

Signed for Macclesfield Town from Goslings when the club folded. Norman was an attacking left-back who made the position his own when he was almost ever-present until missing the first four months of the 1953-54 season through injury.  He did not feature in the following season and in his final season, 1955-56, he shared the position with Roger Wood and Jack Wood. He gained a winners' medal on two consecutive seasons in the Cheshire Senior Cup and was a member of the team which were Cheshire League Champions in 1953.  

   

Girdwood Alfred W

1947-48 Outside-right

CL     League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 27 August 1947 Buxton (Home)

Only made one senior appearance but featured in the reseve team.

 
 
 
   

Glazzard Malcolm

Glazzard

 

1951-52 to 1954-55 Forward

CL   League 133 Apps 102 Goals   Cups 29 Apps 10 Goals

Debut 12 January 1952 Winsford United (Away)   

Initially played for Ellesmere Port before signing amateur forms with Liverpool Youth and professional forms in May 1949. Moved to Acrrington Stanley in August 1951 before signing for Macclesfield. 

Malcolm was a tall, sturdy 20-year-old geology student when he signed for Macclesfield Town, initially on a month’s trial which was converted to a permanent contract. He was an important player as Macclesfield won the Cheshire League title and were Cheshire League Cup finalists in 1952-53.  At the Moss Rose he formed a lethal partnership with Frank Monaghan and Bob McMorran .  He created both goals as Macclesfield retained the Cheshire Senior Cup in 1952 and started again when the Silkmen lifted the Trophy for a third time in four years in 1954. He was a prolific scorer, setting the scene when he scored on his debut.  He often scored two goals in a match, notched up seven hat-tricks, scored four of the six goals in the home match against Buxton at the start of the 1954-55 season and scored five of the nine goals in the Champions versus Runners-up match against Wellington in April 1953.  Malcolm was top-scorer in 1953-54  and 1954-55 scoring 35 goals in each season. 

On leaving the Moss Rose he emigrated to the USA to take up a teaching post and played for the Los Angeles Scottish FA. Played for the US Army whilst posted in Germany, however, the circumstances of him playing for the US Army are unknown but it is possible that he became a citizen of the United States following his immigration and as such would have to serve a term in the US Army as Military/National Service.

Held a BA (Hons) degree in Geography obtained at Manchester University.

Born: 1 July 1931.Died 26 June 2012 after a short illness at his home in Rhode Island, USA.

 

Glendon Kevin

Glendon_Kevin

1987-88 and 1989-90 Midfielder

Conf    League 11(4)0    Cups 2(3)0

Debut 22 August 1987 Maidstone United (Home)

Kevin's career started as an apprentice at Manchester City where he signed professional forms in June 1979 although he never made a senior league appearance for City. Whilst at City along with Steve Kinsey played in the 1979 Youth Cup Final against Millwall. Moved to  Crewe Alexandra in August 1980 (four appearances), then Hyde United 94 appearances, seven goals), Burnley in December 1983 (four appearances), Witton Albion (August to November 1984, 23 appearances and one goal in all competitions), Mossley (95 appearances, nine goals), and Northwich Victoria for a fee of £200 (27 appearances, two goals).

Signed for Macclesfield in the summer of 1987. Kevin’s appearances came at the start of Macclesfield Town's  first season in the Conference but he soon found himself on the substitutes’ bench and then replaced by other players.

On leaving the Moss Rose he signed for Hyde United (42 appearances, seven goals) then Chorley for a fee of £600 (40 appearances, three goals) returning to Macclesfield on loan for one senior appearance in the 1989-90 season.

He then became player/ manager at Radcliffe Borough where he remained for 20 years in the managerial role including leading his team to the championship of NPL Division One in 1977, retiring in 2010 building a reputation for producing young talent amassing over £200,000 in transfer fees. He remained with Radcliffe Borough after he had stepped down as manager probably as a director until the start of the 2014-15 season.

Since February 2009 has been a director of TNG Events & Promotions Ltd, a business supplies and equipment company.

Born: 21 June 1961.

 

Glover Edward Lee

Lee Glover

2000-01 to 2002-03 Forward

FL     League    72(13)18    Cups 7(2)6

Debut 12 August 2000 Scunthorpe (Home)

Lee, a former youth and under-21 Scottish international, commenced his playing career at Nottingham Forest as an apprentice gaining his first professional contract in May 1987 (76 appearances, nine goals).  Here he played alongside Peter Davenport (see separate entry) and sent time out on loan at Leicester City from September 1989 (five appearances, one goal), Barnsley from January 1990 (eight appearances) and Luton Town from September 1991 (one appearance). He then signed for Port Vale (fee £200,000) in August 1994 (52 appearances, seven goals) and then Rotherham United (fee £150,000) in August 1996 (85 appearances, 29 goals) spending time on loan at Huddersfield Town from March 1997 (11 appearances).

Lee signed for Macclesfield Town in the summer of 2000 and was manager Peter Davenport's first summer signing. Completed his first two seasons as the Silkmen’s top scorer and, as Macclesfield’s penalty taker,  it was appropriate that he scored the decider in the (then) record-breaking penalty shoot-out in the FA Cup first round replay at Forest Green Rovers in 2001, eventually leading to a third round tie with West Ham United providing much needed revenue at a time when the club was stretched financially. He was particularly effective working with his back to goal where he collected the ball, skilfully turned on a sixpence and shot, all in one action.

Unable to command a place in the starting line-up in his third year, Lee moved to Mansfield Town in September 2002 (two appearances) and later to Burton Albion and then to Corby Town in December 2002 as player/manager.

He left Corby during the 2004-05 season to become manager at Grantham where he remained until September 2006, but lost his appointment there due to a poor run of results and was later appointed assistant manager at King’s Lynn. Later he spent time as Senior Development Coach at Derby County and for the 2015-16 season was appointed Head of Coaching and Professional Development Phase coach in the Academy at Burton Albion, but quickly moved on early in the season to take up the position of coach for the Under 21s at Coventry City. Was appointed assistant manager  to Grant McCann at Peterborough in June 2016 leaving them in March 2017. In July 2018 Lee was appointed Opposition Analyst together with assisting with coaching duties of the Development Squad at Doncaster Rovers, again linking up with Grant McCann, and was later appointed as assistant manager of their Under 23 team. In May 2019 was appointed assistant manager at Mansfield Town leaving by mutual accord in January 2020. At the end of February 2022 was appointed assistant manager at AFC Rushden & Diamonds until the end of the 2021-22 season. Appointed manager at Kettering Town in May 2022 but following their relegation to SFL Central - Premier at the end of the 2022-23 season, Lee left the club. Returned to EFL2 side Doncaster Rovers as first team coach during the summer of 2023.

Born: Kettering, 24 April 1970.

 

Gnahoua Arthur

Gnahoua_Arthur

2012-13 to 2014-15 Midfielder/Forward

NC     League 21(14)3     Cups 8(1)2

FL      League 26(3)4       Cups 1(2)0

Debut 6 April 2013 Sub Hereford United (Home)

A member of the youth set up at Stalybridge Celtic, Arthur progressed to the senior side at Bower Fold making 32 appearances during the 2011-12 season.  Out of contract in the summer of 2012 Arthur impressed at the Moss Rose in pre-season matches and as a free agent was signed by the Silkmen in September 2012.

There were loan spells at Whitehawk FC and Colwyn Bay and he was an unused substitute on six occasions before he was given three late season appearances from the substitutes' bench. A young useful left-sided midfielder, Arthur scored his first goal for the Silkmen in the 90th minute in the 4-5 defeat at Woking in April 2013.

In the 2013-14 season Arthur graduated to the senior side but could not break into the side on a permanent basis with his appearances spread throughout the season.  His two goals came in the first round and the semi-final of the Cheshire Senior Cup.

Again in the 2014-15 season Arthur found it difficult to break into the team although he scored two excellent goals in September, a splendid solo effort against FC Halifax Town and a well executed strike against Gateshead.

Arthur elected to leave the Silkmen at the beginning of January 2015 to try his luck in Spain where he signed for Club de Futbol Gava ( CF Gava) in Catalonia Spain.  He returned to England in the summer of 2015 appearing in pre-season matches for Macclesfield Town but did not re-sign.  Signed for Kidderminster Harriers in January 2016, moving to Shrewsbury Town in the summer of 2017. In November 2018 signed a loan deal with AFC Fylde until 14 January 2019 after which he signed a permanent contract with Carlisle United in January 2019.

Having been released by Carlisle United in May 2019 returned to Macclesfield Town at the end of August 2019 until the end of the 2019-20 season with an option for his contract to be extended for a further year. From September onwards was a regular member of the team playing as a frontman partnered by different players.  In a season where no forward managed to score many goals, Arthur contributed four league goals, two of which were winning strikes - the 1-0 home win against Cambridge United on 4 January 2020 (Macclesfield Town's 850th English Football League goal) and the 2-1 home victory against Forest Green Rovers on 25 January 2020 which was voted Goal of the Season. The option to extend his contract for a further year at the end of the 2019-20 season was not taken up which resulted in him being relased in June 2020.

Signed a one-year contract with Bolton Wanderers in September 2020 but was released at the end of the 2020-21 season when he signed for Morecambe following their promotion to English League Division 1 with his contract extended for the 2022-23 season after which he was released. Signed a one-year deal with EFL2 side Grimsby Town in the summer of 2023.

Born: 18 September 1992.

 

   

Goalen Harold Keith

Keith Golen

1957-58 to 1969-70 Wing-half/forward/Manager

CL     League 336 Apps 29 Goals   Cups 96 Apps 11 Goals

Debut  5 October 1957 Hyde United (Away)

NPL  League 7(1)2    Cups 1(0)0

Started his sporting career at school when he played stand-off position under the Rugby Union code, but he soon turned to soccer. He played at left-half in the Stockport Boys' team which won the English Youth Cup in 1948. As an amateur he played for Northern Nomads FC and appeared for the Cheshire FA Amateur XI having moved to outside left. As an amateur he was selected for a FA Amateur XI and an English International Trial Match representing the North against the South.

He joined Stockport County at youth level making his League debut as a 17 year-old at Carlisle in April 1951, gaining his first professional contract in April 1953 but failed to secure a regular first team position only making 18 league appearances and scoring two goals.

Before signing for Macclesfield Town he had been out of contention for 12 months with a groin injury, signing initially for a month, then a second month and then for the remainder of the season. During his time as a player at Macclesfield Town, Keith was the Silkmen's longest serving player since the Second World War, won a Cheshire Senior Cup Winners' medal in 1960 and was awarded the Sportsman of the Year award on two occasions for the seasons 1961-62 and 1965-66. He took over as player/coach when the Silkmen were left without a manager at the start of the 1967-68 season after Albert Leake retired. He led the side to the Cheshire League Championship and promotion to the Northern Premier League, however, he will always be remembered for steering Macclesfield through to the FA Cup third round at Fulham, placing Macclesfield on the national football map. Keith became the first non-League player to be awarded the Footballer of the Month by the London based Evening Standard newspaper. He stepped down as manager because of work commitments as a solicitor in the town.  Keith was given two Testimonial Matches his service to the club. The first, after five years of service, was held on 30 April 1962 against an All Star XI and the second on 11 May 1968 when Fulham were the opposition. He coached the reserves in the 1968-69 season making a few first team appearances when required.

Also an accomplished musician.

Born: 24 May 1933.

 

Godwin Verdi

Godwin_Verdi

1958-59 Forward

CL   League 3 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 6 September 1958 Ellesmere Port Town (Home) FA Cup Preliminary Round

Before embarking on a football career Verdi was a Bevin Boy during the Second World War, he then enjoyed a career as a Football League player with many clubs.  A junior at Blackburn Rovers he signed his first professional contract in March 1946 (27 league appearances, six goals). Signed for Manchester City in June 1948 (eight appearances, three goals), then Stoke City in June 1949 (22 appearances, two goals), Mansfield Town in January 1950 (31 appearances, nine goals), Middlesbrough in November 1951 but did not make any league appearances, Grimsby Town in January 1952 (one appearance), Brentford in March 1952 (seven appearances, one goal), Southport in July 1954 (17 appearances, two goals), Barrow in August 1955 (15 appearances, three goals) and Tranmere Rovers in August 1956 (14 appearances, two goals).

He signed for Macclesfield in 1958 but made few senior appearances as he was used as back-up for other players.

On leaving Macclesfield he signed for New Brighton.

On retiring from playing in April 1964 he became a scout. From his retirement to 1985 fulfilled this role at Blackpool, Chelsea, Plymouth Argyle, Liverpool, Vancouver Whitecaps, Bolton Wanderers and Wimbledon. During his time as a scout he is credited with spotting Tony Waiters, Emlyn Hughes and Paul Mariner.

In addition, he served as Chief Lifeguard on Southport Beach for 36 years for which he received the British Empire Medal. Well known in many clubs in Southport he would act as compere and also sing.

Named after the Italian composer Guiseppe Verdi.

Born 11 February 1926. Died on 1 December 2013.

 

Goldthorpe Arthur

1878-79 to 1883-84, 1896-97 and 1902-03 and 1903-04 Defender

#TC     League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 26 October 1878 Cobridge (Away) Staffordshire County Cup Round 1

 

Graduated from the Hornets playing the majority of his matches in the pre-league days, was captain of the side for one season and represented Cheshire at county level.

Brother of William.

 

 

Goldthorpe William

1903-04 and 1904-05 Left-back

#ML     League 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut - unknown due to missing match information

 
 

Previously with Macclesfield United he was Macclesfield's reserve team left-back on joing the Silk Lads.  First identified senior appearance coming in April 1904 but with match information missing immediately before this match it has been impossible to confirm whether this was his only appearance during the 1903-04 season.  Appeared again in the away match at Heywood United in February 1905 replacing the regular left-back J Poulson.

Brother of Arthur.

   

Gomes Rico

Gomes_Rico

2016-17 Forward

NC    Cups 0(1)0

Debut 1 November 2016 Sub Winsford United (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup Preliminary Round

A former Manchester United trainee, who since being released from Old Trafford has played for Stalybridge Celtic (November 2012 to January 2013) and Greek side AS Thesprotos. On returning from Greece he signed for Salford City in January 2016 although it would appear that he did not make any senior team appearances for them.

One of 11 players signed on non-contract terms for Macclesfield Town at the end of October 2016 prior to the Cheshire Senior Cup Preliminary Round match in which he made his only appearance for the club from the substitutes' bench.  Released in November 2016.

Signed for Droylsden in March 2018.

Born: 13 January 1993.

Career path prior to Macclesfield Town obtained from the National League.

   

Gomis Virgil Vilela

Gomis_Virgil

2019-20 Forward

FL     League 4(7)0     Cups 2(1)2

Debut 10 August 2019 sub Leyton Orient (Home)

Born in Limay, Yvelines, France, his career started with FC Mantois in 2013 moving to the Nottingham Forest Academy in 2015, graduating to the professional ranks in July 2018 having played for Forest’s Under 18 and Under 23 sides. Spent time on loan at Braintree from October to November 2018 (five league appearances) and at Notts County from January to May 2019 (10 appearances).

The 20 year old signed a season-long loan with Macclesfield Town from Nottingham Forest in August 2019. Used on a fairly regular basis at the beginning of the season often from the substitutes's bench, scoring goals in the first round of the Carabao Cup and in the Group stage of the Leasing.com Trophy but was unable to hit the back of the net in League games. His last match for Macclesfield Town came on 9 November 2019 in the first round of the FA Cup after which he only appeared as an unused substitute in one match.  Recalled by his parent club on 3 January 2020. It does not appear that he was retained by Nottingham Forest at the end of the 2020-21 season.

Signed a further season-long loan for 2020-21, on this occasion with Grimsby Town. Joined Paris FC's 'B' team in August 2021.

Born: 16 April 1999.

   

Gonzalez Diaz David

Gonzalez_David

2014-15 Midfielder

NC     League 9(2)0     Cups 1(0)0

Debut 23 August 2014 Kidderminster Harriers (Home)

Commenced his career in the Youth Academy of Real Oviedo in 2000 before moving to the FC Barcelona youth system. Signed for Malaga B in the 2008-09 season, making 59 appearances before moving to Cadiz for the 2010-11 season where he spent a short time before returning to Real Oviedo  in 2011. There he played mainly in their B side but made four appearances for the senior team.  During the 2013-14 season he was at Caudal in the Spanish Segunda Division B.

Signed for Macclesfield in August 2014 after a successful pre-season trial. Featured in the centre of midfield but was unable to force himself into the side on a regular basis faced with stiff competition especially from Paul Turnbull and Danny Whitaker. When David appeared in the starting line-up, he only played the full 90 minutes in four matches. His last match for the Silkmen was on 1 November 2014 and he was released in December 2014 when he returned home to Spain.

He re-signed for Caudel before joining Club Marino de Luanco in the Spanish Tercera (fourth) Division signing for CD Covadonga on 5 September 2020. During the 2021-22 season he managed/coached a CD Covadonga Youth team whilst continuing to play for the senior side. In May 2022 it was announced that he had decided to retire as a player but remained as coach for the CD Covadonga's Youth team for the 2022-23 season.

Born: 20 January 1990.

   

Goodall

1879-80

Debut 18 October 1879 Cocknage (Home)

 

There is no information recorded for this player.

   

Goodfellow JF

1904-05 Inside-left

#ML     League 5 Apps 2 Goals      Cups 2 Apps 2 Goals

Debut 19 November 1904 Bollington St John's (Home) Cheshire Senior Cup Round 1

 
 

Prior to joining Macclesfield he played for Bollington Cross. His first known appearances came in the the Cheshire Senior Cup competition when when he scored one of the three goals in the first round replay but still finished on the losing side. All his league appearances were made at the end of the season.

   

Goodfellow W

1880-81 to 1886-87 Defender

Debut - unknown due to missing match information

 

Whilst on the books of Macclesfield FC from 1880, it was only in the 1883-84 season when he first featured as a regular member of the senior side in the club's pre-league days.  Represented Cheshire at County level in October 1883.

   

Goodwin

1878-79

Debut - unknown due to missing match information

 

There is no information recorded for this player.

   

Goodwin

1921-22 Right-back

 

CL     League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 3 May 1922 Stalybridge Celtic (Home)

 

Hailing from Horwich he made one senior appearance in the final match of the 1921-22 season.

   

Goodwin

1949-50 Left-half

CL   League 2 Apps 0 Goals

 

Debut 8 March 1950 Rhyl (Away)

 

A member of the reserve side.

   

Goodwin Dave

Goodwin_Dave

 

1966-67 to 1967-68 Winger

CL      League 45 Apps 8 Goals    Cups 28 Apps 3 Goals

Debut 20 August 1966 Buxton (Home)

Dave was signed by manager Albert Leake for Macclesfield from Northwich Victoria having previously played for Altrincham. A fast winger who specialised in pin-point crosses, he was a member of the team which reached the third round of the FA Cup in January 1968 against Fulham. Unfortunately just before this match he lost his job and was unable to find suitable alternative employment but a friend gave him the opportunity of a position in South Africa and having played his last game for Macclesfield on 16 March 1968, he emigrated to South Africa where he played for Germiston Callies to 1972. It appears that he then spent a season (1972-73) in Germany with Hertha BSC returning to South Africa in 1973 to play for Arcadia Shepherds.

Born: 14 November 1943.

 

Goodwin Dave

Goodwin_Dave1

 

1982-83 to 1985-86 Forward

NPL    League 64(6)11    Cups 27(2)5

Debut 8 January 1983 Marine (Away)

An experienced Football League player, Dave started at Stoke City as an apprentice signing his first professional contract in June 1972 (26 league appearances, three goals) and whilst at Stoke spent time on loan at Miami Toros in the USA (1973, eight appearances, one goal) and at Workington from October 1976 (seven appearances).  Moved to Mansfield Town in November 1977 for a fee of £25K (46 appearances, five goals), then Bury in September 1980 (four appearances), Rochdale in August 1981 (39 appearances, six goals), Crewe Alexandra in August 1982 (seven appearances) and Congleton Town (13 appearances).

Signed for Macclesfield Town in 1983. He was one of the two goal scorers when Macclesfield won the Cheshire Senior Cup in 1983.

Sp[ent a short time at Stafford Rangers and then Witton Albion (February to August 1985, 23 appearances, three goals) before signing for Macclesfield for a second time in October 1985. Ended his playing career at the end of the 1985-86 season.

Born: 15 October 1954.

NB: Whilst he spent a short time away from Macclesfield, Dave made appearances for Macclesfield in every season between 1982-1983 and 1985-1986).

 

Goodwin F

1904-05 Outside-right

 

#ML     League Apps 4 Goals 1

 

Debut 18 March 1905 Sale Holmfield (Away)

 

There is no information recorded for this player but is probably related to the other Goodwins featuring for Macclesfield in the Manchester & District League.

   

Goodwin Frederick James

'Known as Fred at MTFC

but as Freddie at most

other clubs'

Goodwin_Fred_J

 

1973-74 Forward

NPL    League 31(1)6    Cups 18(0)1

Debut 11 August 1973 Fleetwood (Home)

Commenced his footballing career at Wolverhampton Wanderers as a junior signing his first professional contract in January 1961 (45 league appearances). On leaving Wolves signed for Stockport County in January 1966 (176 appearances, 20 goals) then Blackburn Rovers in March 1970 (64 appearances. four goals), Southport in October 1971 (12 appearances) and Port Vale in August 1972 (27 appearances, two goals).

Signed for Macclesfield in the summer of 1973 to bring experience and stability to the team.

On leaving Macclesfield he returned to Stockport in the Football League for the 1974-75 season. He then played for Cheshire League sides New Mills, Ashton United and Stalybridge Celtic before moving to New Zealand joining side Lower Hutt side Stop Out.

After retiring from playing, Fred became the assistant coach of New Zealand then Papatoetoe, where he was the second coach to be sacked in the 1989 season, on this occasion in the car park, before becoming the coach of Hutt Valley United. He later emigrated to France.

Appears to have returned to the UK at some stage as he is listed as one of three Ambassadors at Stockport County.

Born: 4 January 1944.

   

Goodwin Fred P

Goodwin_Fred

1907-08 to 1909-10 Outside-left

ML   League 43 Apps 6 Goals     Cups 9 Apps 1 Goal

Debut 7 September 1907 Northwich Victoria (Away)

Fred Started his career at Burnley joining them in November 1906 where he only made one senior appearance.  He then joined Leek (5th Cheshire Volunteers)  before moving to Congleton Town.

Macclesfield signed him from Congleton in the summer of 1907 going straight into the side missing only one league match in his first season with the club. He was described as a robust, clever forward who was a fast runner and a skilful dribbler of the ball. 

He featured for Congleton Town at the start of the 1908-09 season returning to Macclesfield in February 1909 helping the team win the Manchester League Championship, however, he only made two mid-season appearances in his last season at the Moss Rose,  re-joining Congleton Town in April 1910.

He re-joined Leek in July 1910 and then signed for Brighton (May 1911) and West Ham United (April 1913) before moving to Exeter City in December 1913.  Whilst at Exeter he was chosen by the Football Association to take part in a tour to South America in 1914. The team toured Argentina as a 'typical' team and on the return journey stopped off in Rio to play three matches against what is now considered to be the first Brazilian national team.

In the First World War he joined the 17th Service Battalion of the Middlesex Regiment, known as the Football Battalion because it was made up primarily of professional footballers. Fred was injured during fighting and never played again.

Died of war wounds in 1945.

 

Goodwin FW

1902-03 to 1904-05 Left-back

#ML     League 11 Apps 1 Goals

Debut 21 February 1903 Tonge (Away)

 
 
 

Signed from Crewe in February 1903 it would appear that he could not establish himself in the senior side making few appearances during his time with Macclesfield.  Moved to the forward line for two matches in the 1904-05 season.

   

Goodwin J

1904-05 Outside-left

 

#ML     League 3 Apps 0 Goals

 

Debut 4 March 1905 Berry's (Home)

 

Moved to Macclesfield from Congleton, but there is no other infornation known about this player.

   

Goodwin Martin

1904-05 Centre-forward

#ML     League 3 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 3 September 1904 Northwich Victoria (Away)

Prior to playing for Macclesfield was with Congleton Town, but there is no other informaion known about this player.

 
 
 
   

Goodwin Neil

1977-78 to 1980-81

NPL    League 83(1)28    Cups 17(4)5

Debut 20 August 1977 Mossley (Away)

Neil was signed from Stafford Rangers.  He was a skilful ball player, good in the air with the ability to score goals.  He was top scorer with 19 goals in the 1977-78 season including a hat-trick in the 3-0 home win against Buxton in September 1977. He joined Leek for a two month spell before returning to Macclesfield and then went to New Zealand for a summer season in 1979.

 

Goodwin TH

1959-60 and 1960-61 Centre-half

CL   League 23 Apps 0 Goals    Cups 3 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 29 August 1959 Runcorn (Away)

Said to be an experienced player who was equally effective in a defensive or attacking role

 

Goram Lewis Albert 'Lew'

Goram_Lewis

1959-60 Goalkeeper

CL   League 5 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 22 August 1959 Buxton (Home)

Born in Edinburgh he started his football career at Leith Athletic before joining Hibernian in 1948, although he never made a senior appearance for them, and signed for Third Lanark in 1949. Moved south of the Border in June 1950 when he signed for Bury where he made 114 Football League appearances and then played for Buxton.

Signed for Macclesfield in the summer of 1959 featuring in the opening matches of the season after which he was replaced by Gordon Cuddeford. Leaving Macclesfield he played for Mossley (1959-60) and then Buxton (1960-63).

His son was also a professional football goalkeeper, capped 43 times for Scotland and played 184 league matches for Rangers.

Born: 2 July 1926. Died: January 1989.

 

Gordon Bill

Gordon

1959-60 and 1960-61 Centre-forward

CL  League 40 Apps 27 Goals    Cups 10 Apps 10 Goals

Debut 22 August 1959 Buxton (Home)

Played for Stockport County for several seasons but was signed from Fleetwood as a half-back and made the transition to centre-forward. Bill was top scorer in 1959-60 season with 37 goals in all competitions, including hat-tricks against Ellesmere Port Town, Tranmere Rovers and in the Cheshire Senior Cup semi-final against Altrincham.  He scored the winning goal in the Cheshire Senior Cup final against Hyde United.

 

Gordon Doctor

1927-28 Inside-left

CL     League 6 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 18 February 1928 Manchester North End (Away)

 
 
 

From Sheffield, Doctor Gordon who was working in the Macclesfield area, was given a short run in the team in February and March 1928. Although reports state that he was a useful player, for some reason, he did not establish himself in the side

   

Gorman Rory John McCaughan

 'Johnny'

Gorman_John

2012-13 Midfielder

NC     League 0(1)0

Debut 12 February 2013 Sub Tamworth (Away)

Initially with Manchester City from 2002-03, Jonny then spent from 2003 to 2009 at Manchester United before joining the Wolverhampton Wanderers Academy in 2009. He signed his first professional contract with Wolves in December 2010 making his club debut in March 2012 as a substitute in the match against Norwich City. In August 2012 he spent a short time on loan at Plymouth Argyle (two league appearances). 

Signed on loan from Wolves for Macclesfield at the end of January 2013 when he replaced John Paul Kissock in the 78th minute at Tamworth and was an unused substitute on two other occasions.

 Returned to Wolverhampton Wanderers at the end of February after which he went on loan to Cambridge United.  Signed for Leyton Orient in the summer of 2013, then Southport in August 2014, Barrow in October 2014, and AFC Telford United in the summer of 2015 spending time on loan at Colwyn Bay in 2016. Signed for Curzon Ashton in the summer of 2016 where he is known as 'Rory', spending time at Ashton United In December 2016 on dual registration and Atherton Collieries, also on dual registration, in February 2017 rejoining Curzon Ashton at the end of the 2016-17 season but linked up again with Atherton Collieries at the beginning of the 2017-18 season. However, signed for Northwich Victoria in October 2017 leaving them in September 2018 when he signed for SFL South side Frome Town. In addition plays for Bath University where he is studying for a degree in psychology (2020).

He has represented Northern Ireland at every level from Under 16 to Under 21 and made nine appearances for the senior side.

Born: 26 October 1992.

   

Gosling AW

1891-92 to 1894-95, 1896-97 to 1900-01 and 1902-03 to 1903-04 Forward

#TC      League 5 Apps 3 Goals         Cups 2 Apps 0 Goals

#SDL    League 16 Apps 7 Goals    

NSL      League 27 Apps 8 Goals        Cups 1 App 0 Goals

#ML     League 21 Apps 9 Goals

Debut 14 November 1891 Northwich Victoria (Away) FA Cup Q3

 

Only playing occasionally from 1891-92 to 1896-97, it is possible that Gosling was a member of the Macclesfield reserve team although he appeared for Dresden United in December 1894 which could well have been a trial. With Macclesfield FC failing financially in 1897, Local side Hallefield moved to the Moss Rose for the 1897-98 season.  Gosling was a regular member of the Stockport and District League side filling various forward positions, with the team going on to claim the Championship having remained unbeaten throughout the season. Gosling played his part again generally filling the inside-left position when Hallefield moved to the North Staffordshire and District League for the 1898-99 and 1899-1900.

Macclesfield FC reformed for the 1900-01 season with Gosling remaining to play in the Manchester and District League, again as a forward.  Whilst he was not a prolific scorer, each season from 1897-98 he scored a number of goals including a hat-trick in the 7-2 away win against Broadheath on 11 October 1902.

   
   

Gosling David

Gosling_David

1946-47 to 1948-49 Defender

CL   League 50 Apps 3 Goals     Cup 10 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 31 August 1946 Buxton (Home) 

A local player who represented Devenport whilst in the Royal Navy. David's appearances were spread evenly over his three years at the Moss Rose when he was used as a 'back-up' full-back at senior level whilst, at the same time,  he was a member of the reserve team.

On leaving Macclesfield played for Mossley during the 1949-50 season and then moved to Buxton.

 

Gotsell Richard

1935-36 Left-half

CL     League 19 Apps 0 Goals    Cups 3 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 26 October 1935 Hyde United (Away)

Prior to joining Macclesfield had played for Sandbach Ramblers and Witton Albion. His chance in the senior side came, initially, when other players were injured.  From the end of October 1935 to the end of January 1936 he was almost ever-present, but from then until the end of the season he shared the left-half position with George Rigby and Jesse Thornley.

Born: 10 March 1911, Cheshire. Died: 1976, Aberconwy, Caernarvonshire

 

Gough G

1910-11 Left-half

 

ML     League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 29 April 1911 Berry's (Home)

 

Signed from Tredegar but there is no further information recorded about this player whose one appearance came in the last match of the 1910-11 season when, according to a local newspaper, he was given a trial giving a very creditable display however, it would appear that he was either not retained by Macclesfield or he elected not to sign possibly as he lived in Bolton.

   

Goulden Brian

1957-58 Centre-half

CL   League 11 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 23 September 1957 Port Vale Reserves (Home)

 

An amateur player who was performing well in the reserve side given a short spell in the senior side, initially when the side was depleted due to illness and other players were unable to obtain time off work.

 

Goulding

1911-12 Left-half

 

ML     League 1 App 0 Goals

 

LC      League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 13 January 1912 Hindley Central (Away)

 

From Chorley, he was one of many players given a short trial during the 1911-12 season.  Both his appearances came in January 1912.

   

Gouldthorpe

1908-09 Inside-left

 

ML     League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 24 April 1909 Witton Albion (Away)

 

His single senior appearance came in the final match of the 1908-09 season in the forward line when Taylor was unavailable having broken his cheekbone, Gouldthorpe having played previously in defence for the Macclesfield reserve team.

   

Grabner Ron

Grabner_Ron

1978-79

NPL    League 0(1)0

Debut 20 September 1978 Sub Bangor City (Away)

Ron hailed from Shrewsbury where, before moving north, he had trials with Football League side Shrewsbury Town. Before playing for Macclesfield he was at Stalybridge Celtic and Hyde United (1969-70, 1971-74).

At Macclesfield Town he was a member of the reserve team making just one senior appearance during his time at the Moss Rose. At the beginning of October 2011 the Macclesfield Express reported that Ron is now one of the best senior triathletes competing all over the world.  A notable result was a sixth place in the over-60s category at the World Triathlon Championships in Beijing China.

On leaving Macclesfield he returned to Hyde United for the 1979-80 season.

A school teacher by profession.

Thanks go to Steve Parsons for the photograph of Ron.

 

Graham

1907-08 Left-back

 

ML     League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 28 March 1908 Witton Albion (Home)

 

Described in the local newspaper as 'a new signing', but as he only made one appearance it would appear that he was probably given a one match trial.

   

Graham Donald 'Don'

Graham _Don

1977-78 Midfielder/Defender

NPL    League 26(0)1    Cups 4(0)0

Debut  22 October 1977 Sub Northwich Victoria (Home)

First played for Hyde United (1973-75) then Ashton United and New Mills.

Signed for Macclesfield Town where he was described as a strong tackling player who could fill a number of positions.

On leaving the Moss Rose played for Winsford United, Hyde United for a second time (1979-80), Bury for a fee of £200, seven appearances), Barrow (45 appearances, six goals), Witton Albion (August 1983 to April 1985, 59 appearances, 12 goals) and Oldham Town.

   

Graham John 'Jack'

1936-37 Left-half/Inside-right

CL    League 14 Apps 2 Goals    Cups 5 Apps 2 Goals

Debut 29 August 1936 Buxton (Home)

Started his football career with Newcastle Juniors (Tyneside Combination) moving to Newcastle United Reserves in September 1927 where he gained his first professional contract in March 1928. He then played for Gillingham (June 1931), Shelbourne (November 1933), Hartlepool United (August 1934) and Stockport County Reserves (August 1935).

Signed for Macclesfield in the summer of 1936, he switched between the two positions appearing fairly regularly from the beginning of the season to the end of December. All his goals came in matches when the Silkmen won by a good margin. He also featured in the reserve side. His contract was cancelled by mutual agreement in January 1937.

Signed for Ashington in Febrtuary 1937 which appears to be his last club.

Born: Newcastle-under-Lyme, April 1901.  Died: Newcastle-under-Lyme, Q1 1970.

 

Grainey James

1947-48 Inside-left

CL    League 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 22 April 1948 Tranmere Rovers Reserves (Away)

An 18 year old signed on amateur forms from Tyldesley United who deputised for John Lyons when he was rested between Challenge Cup semi-final and final ties.

   

Grainger Colin

Grainger_Colin

1966-67 Winger

CL     League 3(0)0     Cups 1(0)0

Debut  20 August 1966 Buxton (Home)

His career commenced in the youth set up at South Elmsall, signing his first professional contract at Wrexham in October 1950 where he made just five appearances before moving to Sheffield United in July 1953 for a fee of £2,500 (88 league appearances, 26 goals), then Sunderland for a fee of £7,000 in February 1957 (120 appearances, 14 goals), Leeds United in July 1960 for a fee of £15,000 (33 appearances, five goals), Port Vale in October 1961 for a fee of £6,000 where he scored on his debut (39 appearances, six goals).  Unfortunately he started to be plagued by injury early in 1962 and by August 1963 he had lost his place and moved to Doncaster Rovers in August 1964 (40 appearances, three goals).

Signed in the summer of 1966 for Macclesfield Town but only made three appearances.

On retiring from playing, over the years he was a scout for Barnsley, Oldham Athletic, Bury and Sheffield United.

Colin earned seven England caps scoring three goals. His first cap came in 1956 in a friendly with Brazil when he scored in the opening minutes with his first touch and went on to head home England’s fourth goal in the 83rd minute.

During his career he was known as ‘the singing winger’ due to his vocal talent performing in clubs and pubs.  He also became a recording artist with HMV.

His autobiography The Singing Winger is available from de Coubertin Books.

Born: 10 June 1933 Havercroft. Died: 19 June 2022.

 

Grant Alexander

Grant_Alex

2014-15 Defender

NC     League 22(3)2     Cups 3(0)1

Debut 27 September 2014 Sub Lincoln City (Away)

Salford born, Alex began his career at Joondalup Soccer Club in Western Australia but returned to the UK to join Portsmouth at the age of 16. He never made a senior appearance there but spent time on loan at Havant and Waterlooville and Eastleigh. When he was released by Portsmouth he signed for Stoke City and was a regular in their under 21 side.

Signed for Macclesfield on loan from the Stoke City Academy in August 2014 until the end of the year which was then extended to the end of the season. Alex faced significant competition for a place in the back four at the start of the season with more experienced players available, but after Luke Waterfall had been recalled to Scunthorpe and Liam Hogan returned to Fleetwood following an injury, Alex became a regular in the side initially at centre back, and when Scott Barrow was out of contention due to injury he ably replaced him at left back making good use of his long throws.

Alex was released by Stoke City at the end of the 2014-15 season and returned to Australia in June 2015 to join A-League side Perth Glory. In mid-December 2020 he was released by Perth Glory to explore an overseas opportunity which was subsequently confirmed as South Korean top-flight side Pohang Steelers. Gained a runners-up medal when his team were beaten by Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in the 2021 Asian Champions League Final (attendance 50171). On 1 February 2024 signed for Chinese Super League side Tianjin Jinmen Tiger

Born: 23 January 1994.

 
   

Grant David 'Dave'

Grant_David

 

1987-88 and 1988-89 Defender

Conf    League 21(3)2 Cups 11(0)3

Debut 22 August 1987 Maidstone United (Home)

An apprentice at Sheffield Wednesday he signed his first professional contract in February 1978 (133 league appearances, four goals). On leaving Wednesday he signed for Oxford United in July 1982 (24 appearances, one goal) spending time on loan at Chesterfield (seven appearances) moving to Crystal Palace in January 1984 where he did not make a senior league appearance, and then signed for Cardiff City in March 1984 (25 appearances) followed by Rochdale in March 1985 (97 appearances, two goals).

Signed by Macclesfield Town in the summer of 1987 he was a member of the team in the club’s first year in the Conference, most of his appearances came in the first half of the season after which he dropped to the substitutes’ bench.  He only made a few senior appearances in the first half of the 1988-89 season spending time on loan at Mossley (four appearances, one goal).

On leaving the Silkmen, moved to Boston United in December 1988.

Born: 2 June 1960.

   

Grant John

John_Grant

2011-12 Forward

FL     League 0(4)0    Cups 0(1)0

Debut Sub 13 August 2011 Sub Crawley Town (Away)

A former Crewe Alexandra trainee, John  was promoted to the professional ranks in July 1999 making seven league appearances for the Railwaymen, and spent time on loan at Northwich Victoria before joining Hereford United in the summer of 2002. He then played for Telford United (2003-04), signing for Shrewsbury Town in August 2004 (19 appearances, two goals) and Halifax Town (2005-06) where his goals helped the Shaymen to reach the Conference final play-off in which he scored against his former club Hereford. 

In July 2006 John joined Aldershot Town where he went on to make over 140 appearances in all competitions scoring 51 goals.  In their Conference Championship season in 2007-08 he scored 20 goals in 34 appearances and then featured in the Shots first year as a Football League team.  However in the 2009-10 season opportunities were limited and he completed the season on loan at Oxford United.  An ankle injury left him sidelined for much of the 2010-11 campaign, but he played for two months at Barrow.

John signed on non-contract terms for Macclesfield Town in August 2011, but subsequently his contract was extended to January 2012. For much of his time at the Moss Rose, John was an unused substitute but made five appearances from the Substitutes' bench, however, he was unable to force his way into the side and was released at the end of his contract.

Having been without a club since leaving Macclesfield John signed for Droylsden in March 2013. John then retired from playing football to concentrate on his business Inspire Sports Management with his long-term friend Mustafa Mehmood.

Whilst at Aldershot in 2007 John made four appearances for the England C team.

 

Gray Daniel Edward 'Dan'

Daniel Gray

2010-11 and 2011-12 Defender/Midfielder

FL    League 20(3)1

Debut 1 January 2011 Bury (Away)

Initially signed on a month’s loan, which was extended to the end of the 2010-11 season, from Chesterfield where he was initially a trainee signing his first professional contract in July 2008 and would go o to make 46 league appearances. Whilst he started his career as a midfielder, Daniel has moved to the right-back position where he passed the ball well and made good use of his long throws.  Dan returned to Macclesfield, again on loan, in November 2011 for one month making two appearances in midfield. Dan was released by Chesterfield at the end of the 2011-12 season when he signed for Lincoln City leaving them in the summer of 2014 when he signed for Alfreton Town from where he spent a month on loan at Bradford Park Avenue in January 2015.  Appears to have left Alfreton Town after the 2015-16 season.

Born: 23 November 1989.

 

Gray George

1925-26 Right-half

 

CL     League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 29 August 1925 Chester (Away)

 

During the 1924-25 season captained Chorley. Having played in a pre-season practice match for Macclesfield was given a one match trial in the opening match of the season.

   

Gray W

1925-26 Outside-right

 

CL     6 Apps 0 Goals

 

Debut 29 August 1925 Chester (Away)

 

From Liverpool, Gray played in six early season matches after which the outside-right position was filled by experienced players.

   

Greaves Thomas 'Tommy'

Greaves_Tom

1913-14 and 1914-1915 and 1919-1920 Forward

LC      League 62 Apps 45 Goals     Cups 11 Apps 8 Goals

CL     League 1 App 0 Goals     Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 6 September 1913 Crewe Alexandra Reserves (Home)

Started his football career with Northwood National School and then Hanley Excelsior before signing for Burslem Port Vale (January 1906) and Goldenhill Villa (September 1907). Tommy signed for Stoke in 1908 where he made 13 senior league appearances scoring five goals. He left Stoke for Hanley Swifts in July 1911, after which he played for Merthyr Town (July 1912) in the Southern League before signing for Macclesfield where he was vice-captain to Percy Pickford.

At Macclesfield he was a prolific goal scorer and was top goal scorer in both the 1913-14 and 1914-15 season. In his first season he helped the Silkmen achieve promotion from the Second Division to the First Division of the Lancashire Combination. He was highly thought off and always played with skill and vigour.

He returned to Macclesfield after the First World War but illness prevented him from playing at the start of the season and he only went onto make two appearances in September and October 1919.

Born: 6 June 1888, Hanley. Died: 1960.

 
 
 
 
   

Grech Micky

1988-89 Defender

Conf    Cups 1(0)0

Debut 25 October 1988 Bilston Town (Away) Staffordshire Senior Cup R1

Initially at Bolton St Thomas, signed for Mossley making 23 appearances during the 1984-85 season then moved to Curzon Ashton before making his one appearance for Macclesfield Town.

 

Green

1925-26 Right-back

 

CL     League 18 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 4 Apps 0 Goals

 

26 December 1925 Stalybridge Celtic (Away)

 

From Stoke, Green was signed at the end of December 1925 taking over the right-back position and missing very few matches between then and the end of the season. He replaced Burrows and Vigrass who had shared this position in the first half of the season.  His four cup matches all came in the Cheshire Senior Cup competition.  Described as a cool and capable defender who possessed a strong forceful kick.

   

Green A

1912-13 Inside-right

 

LC     League 2 Apps 0 Goals

 

Debut 2 September 1912 Bacup (Away)

 

Only featured in the first two matches of the 1912-13 season.

   

Green Andy

Green_Andy

1991-92 and 1992-93 Forward

Conf    League 26(1)8    Cups 12(0)3

Debut 2 November 1991 Welling United (Away)

Started his career at Bootle and then South Liverpool who sold him for a five figure fee in 1990 to Belgian club Royal Union Sportive Binchoise (known as RUS Binche).

He then returned to England, Macclesfield Town signing him during the 1991-92 season for a fee of £7,000 when he scored 10 goals in 37 appearances in all competitions in his first season with the club.

On leaving Macclesfield he signed for Morecambe, Knowsley and then Altrincham towards the end of the 1993-94 season (82 appearances, 35 goals) where he made quite a name for himself displaying skill and commitment but also was suspended on four occasions in the 1994-95 season. On leaving Altrincham he played for Barrow, Droyslden and finally Rhyl who he joined in December 2001.

Born: 23 August 1969.

 

 

Green Francis James 'Franny'

Francis Green

 

2007-08 and 2008-09 Forward

FL    League 44(21)14    Cups 5(2)2

Debut 11 August 2007 Bradford City (Away)

Francis started his career in the non-League scene, but a £25,000+ move from Ilkeston Town to Peterborough United in March 1998 at the age of 17 launched his football career (108 league appearances, 14 Goals). On leaving the Posh Franny signed for Lincoln City in September 2003 (100 appearances, 18 goals), spending time on loan at Boston United in November 2005 (six appearances, one goal) signing permanently in July 2006 (39 appearances, four goals).

He was one of many players to leave Boston at the end of the 2006-07 season and signed a two-year deal with the Silkmen relishing the opportunity to play as an out and out front man, as he had been asked to play wide with the Pilgrims. A regular scorer throughout his career, Franny completed his first season at the Moss Rose as top-scorer with 11 goals, with one of his best performances in the home 3-3 draw against MK Dons when he bagged a brace. A talented striker who plays with pace and enthusiasm and has an eye for goal, but can be utterly frustrating in the application of his talents.  Featuring regularly in the first half of the 2008-09 season, he was rarely seen in the second half due to a knee injury and was released in the summer of 2009.

Since then he has been on the books of Kettering Town, Oxford United, Brackley Town (including time on loan at Hucknall Town), Eastwood Town, Ilkeston and Spalding United, Corby Town and Basford.

Having retired from playing, he embarked on a sports coaching and psychology course at University after which he started a Football Intermediary(Agency) but after two years he decided that this approach was not the right direction for him. He moved to full time teaching while studying for a Law Degree.  In addition, he works for BBC Cambridgeshire with their commentary team and coaches kids.  More recently (2018) he is at the foundation stage of starting a Social Media Management Company (Wysocial Media Agency) based in Nottingham for athletes and businesses.

Born: Nottingham, 25 April 1980.

 

Green Joshua 'Josh'

Green_Josh

Green_Joshua

2012-13 and 2013-14 Midfielder

NC       Cups 2(0)0

Debut 26 February 2013 Stalybridge Celtic (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup R2

A member of the Macclesfield Youth Team whose one appearance in the 2012-13 season came when members of the youth team were fielded for the Cheshire Senior Cup tie. Joined the Silkmen from Shrewsbury where he was a member of their youth team, moving from full-back to a defensive midfield role and captained the Macclesfield youth team during the 2012-13 season. Gained his first professional contract with the Silkmen in the summer of 2013, but only made one appearance in the first round of the Cheshire Senior Cup against Vauxhall Motors in November 2013. Spent a month on loan at Market Drayton from 7 November 2013 to December 7 2013.

On leaving Macclesfield he signed for Stalybridge Celtic in January 2014 and then Fleetwood Town in the summer of 2014 going on loan to Chester for a month in January 2015 where he made two appearances from the substitutes' bench. Unable to break into the senior side at Fleetwood Josh signed for Market Drayton in the summer of 2015 moving to Sutton Coldfield Town in September 2016 and Stourbridge in February 2017. Returned to Sutton Coldfield Town at the end of January 2018 and then signed for Stafford Rangers, managed by Silkmen legend Steve Burr, in the summer of 2018. Moved to Welsh side Cefn Druids in September 2020 (second photo in Cefn Druids kit). Joined Hanley Town in June 2021 in their new league, Midland League Premier, following the summer 2021 nationwide reorganisation. Left Hanley Town in May 2022 of his own volition due to work and family commitments later signing for Shifnal Town for the 2022-23 season. Despite leaving Hanley Town in 2022 re-signed for them in the summer of 2023.

Born: 11 January 1995.

   

Green Phil

1976-77 Defender

NPL   League 24(0)0    Cups 12(0)0

Debut 14 September 1976 Stafford Rangers (Away)

 

Phil was signed from South Liverpool. An old fashioned type centre-half, he was a powerful defender and good in the air.

 

Green Roy

Roy Green

1992-93 and 1993-94 Forward

Conf    League 11(4)3        Cups 1(0)0

Debut 6 March 1993 Bath City (Away)

Roy was at Aston Villa where he won two schoolboy caps against France and Belgium, before moving to Wolverhampton Wanderers after which he left the game for four years.  On his return he won a FA Vase Winners medal with Tamworth, moved to Atherstone and then Telford United before joining the Silkmen. His goal on the last day of the 1992-93 season gave Macclesfield a 1-0 victory at Wycombe to ensure Conference survival, in front of a crowd of over 5700 who had gathered to celebrate the Chairboys promotion to the Football League.

 

Green Thomas Charles Walter 'Tommy'

1883-84 and 1884-85

Played for many clubs: Dreadnought FC (1879-80), Mitchell St George's (1880-81), Small Heath Alliance (1881-82), Wolverhampton Wanderers (1881-82), Church Villa FC (1881-82), Mitchell St George's (1882-83), Aston Unity FC (1883-84). Great Lever (1883-84), MItchell St George's (1884-85), and West Bromich Albion (1885-87) where he played in Albion's 1886 and 1887 FA Cup finals finishing on the losing side on both occasions.

Signed for Aston Villa in 1887 and was a member of their team in the 1888-89 inaugural season of the Football League scoring Villa's first league goal on his league debut and became the first Villa player to score two league goals in a match going on to notch up 14 league goals in 22 league appearances for the 1888-89 season.

Then played for Kidderminster Harriers (1889-90), Birmingham St George's (1891-92) and Worcester Rovers (1901-02).

It would appear that he guested for other clubs, which probably included Macclesfield when it is said that he came seeking work with opportunities in the Birmingham area limited, at a time when professionalism was being questioned, Green being defined as a professional turning out for a number of clubs for payment.

Born: 7 August 1863. Died: 2 October 1923.

 
   

Greenall

1946-47 Outside-left

CL    League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 11 January 1947 Chester Reserves (Home)

 

An amateur from St Helens signed just before the match when Bert Swindells was unable to play because of 'flu.  Harry Ryan moved to inside-right allowing Greenall to featured at outside-left. Like other players during this season, he only made the one appearance at a time when Macclesfield were giving trials to many players in the club's first season after the Second World War.

   

Greenall

1957-58 Goalkeeper

CL  League 16 Apps 0 Goals   Cups 4 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 4 September 1957 Ellesmere Port Town (Home)

The reserve team goalkeeper who initially deputised for the first choice 'keeper Yoxall when he had fractured his nose.  As the season progressed, he shared the goalkeeping duties equally with Yoxall.

   

Greenhalgh

1912-13 Left-half

 

LC     League 2 Apps 0 Goals

 

Debut 2 September 1912 Bacup (Away)

 

Only featured in the first two matches of the 1912-13 season.

   

Greenhalgh

1920-21 Centre-forward

 

CL     League 1 App 0 Goals

 

Debut 28 August 1920 Crewe Alexandra Reserves (Home)

 

Previously with Nelson and recorded as having signed for Macclesfield prior to the start of the 1920-21 season, he made just the one appearance in the opening match of the season.  There is no record of him playing for the reserve side.

   

Greenwood

1928-29 Centre-forward

CL     Cups 1 App ) Goals

Debut 5 November 1928 Rhyl (Away) FA Cup 3rd Qualifying Round Replay

A member of the Macclesfield reserve side brought into the senior side for a single match, being the third player used in this position in four matches just before the signing of William Devlin.

On leaving Macclesfield moved to Congleton Town.

 
 
 
   

Gregory

1934-35 Right-back

CL   Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 29 September 1934 Colwyn Bay (Home) FA Cup Qualifying R1

An amateur from Poynton brought into the side for this one match at a time when Thomas Thornley was unavailable.

 

Grey Rex A

Grey_Rex

1960-61 and 1961-62 Forward

CL    League 54 Apps 48 Goals    Cups 12 Apps 5 Goals

Debut 20 August 1960 Wigan (Away)

Rex was discovered by Manchester City playing in amateur football in the Salford District, and was signed by them as a professional at the age of 19.  He remained at City for three seasons, but never made the senior side although he scored many goals for them in their Central League side. After recovering from cartilage trouble, he spent a season with Runcorn before signing for Hyde United where he was a free-scoring forward. 

He was Frank Bowyer’s first signing and in his first season with Macclesfield Town, he scored a total of 34 league goals which included five hat-tricks, capitalising on his speed and powerful shot.

On leaving Macclesfield he signed for Altrincham in February 1962 for a 'substantial' fee.

He was a driver employed by Manchester Corporation.

 

Grice R

1905-06 and 1906-07 Inside-right

#ML     League 32 Apps 10 Goals     Cups 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 2 September 1905 Northwich Victoria (Home)

Having previously played for Stretford and Denton, Grice was signed in the summer of 1905 taking over the inside-right position from David Barnett, although Smethams had filled this position towards the end of the 1904-05 season. Ever present throughout the 1905-06 season he scored six goals, and was again the preferred inside-right at the start of the 1906-07 season scoring three goals, but he missed two matches in September through injury. He returned for a further three matches, the last of which was the first round tie of the Cheshire Senior Cup against Congleton Town on 20th October

After this match he gave one's notice to terminate his connection with the club, the reason for which is not specified in reports.  The club decided to dispensed with his services with immediate effect.

   

Griffin Brian

Griffin_Brian

 

 

1981-82 to 1983-84 Forward

NPL    League 105(1)24    Cups 36(0)12

Debut 25 August 1981 Buxton (Home)

Formerly with Prestwich Heys, Nantwich Town (fee £400) where he gained a winners' medal in the 1976 Cheshire Senior Cup competition, and Witton Albion (March 1977 to May 1981, 233 appearances, 77 goals).

Signed for Macclesfield Town in the summer of 1981 for a fee of £500, Brian was considered to be one of the best and most skilful forwards in Non-League and was top scorer at Macclesfield in the 1982-83 season with 10 goals. 

On leaving the Silkmen played for Hyde United (23 appearances, four goals) then Irlam Town, and Curzon Ashton and Irlam Town for a second time.

He was later manager at Flixton and for Trafford Reserves where he also served on the club's Management Committee.

Also a member of the NPL XI.

 

Griffiths

1921-22 Defender

 

CL     League 2 Apps 0 Goals

 

Debut 31 August 1921 Connah's Quay (Home)

 

Hailing from Manchester, was given an early season two match trial having performed well in a pre-season practice match but was not signed.

   

Griffiths Kenneth James 'Ken'

1960-61 Forward

CL    League 6 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 11 March 1961 Winsford United (Away)

Ken's football career started with local youth sides including Northwood Mission, but during the Second World War whilst a member of the Royal Air Force he played for his unit's side.  After the war he joined Port Vale, initially as an amateur, signing professional forms in February 1950 (179 league appearances, 52 goals). At Port Vale he played at inside-left where he was recognised as the schemer in chief of the first team forward line. A most unassuming and unselfish player he never neglected the opportunity to create openings for his colleagues. He then moved to Mansfield Town in January 1958 for a four-figure fee (42 appearances, seven goals). Having left Mansfield Town he played for Stafford Rangers, Wellington Town and Sankeys before a short spell at the Moss Rose.  On leaving the Moss Rose he featured for Northwich Victoria, Nantwich Town, Wolstanton United and was player/coach at Michelin, player/assistant manager at Parkway and then manager of the Staffordshire FA team.

Born: 2 April 1930. Died 9 August 2008.

 

Griffiths Neil

Griffiths_Neil

1983-84 to 1985-86 Defender/Manager

NPL    League 27(3)0   Cups 10(2)0

Debut 8 October 1983 Sub South Liverpool (Away)

A very experienced defender whose football career started with St Lukes YC before signing for Chester in November 1970 (90 league appearances, five goals). He then signed for Port Vale in December 1973 where he became an established member of the senior team (218 appearances, 13 goals). In August 1981 he moved to Crewe Alexandra (34 appearances, one goal) where he remained for one season before signing for Stafford Rangers.

Signed for Macclesfield as a player for the 1983-84 season and became player/coach in the 1984-85 season and was appointed player/manager in the summer of 1985 following the resignation of Brian Booth because of ill health. In the early part of the season some spectacular results were achieved including 7-2 victories over both Caernarfon and Horwich RMI.  In November a very under strength side due to a ‘flu virus played Hartlepool off the park in an FA Cup tie at the Moss Rose but unfortunately the visitors were victorious 2-1.  Having led the table for many weeks, the team started a downward slide with defeat after defeat resulting in Neil leaving club on amicable terms in February 1986 after a 5-1 defeat against Morecambe to join Newcastle Town.

 

Griffiths Peter

1998-99 Midfielder

FL    League 4(0)1   Cups 1(2)0

Debut 22 September 1998 Sub Birmingham City (Away) Worthington Cup R2 L2

A winger brought to Macclesfield from Ashton United principally to play in the newly-formed Reserve team who only made a handful appearances for the senior side. Peter was a quick player with the ability to make pin-point crosses. On leaving Macclesfield Peter signed for Winsford United.

 

Grimes James Neil

Grimes_Jamie

2018-19 Defender

FL      League 13(0)1     Cups 6(0)1

Debut 4 August 2018 Swindon Town (Away)

His youth career began at Leicester City where he played in their U18 side early in 2007 moving to Swansea City in July 2007 featuring in their Under 18 and Under 21 sides. He signed his first professional contract with Swansea City in 2009 but did not make any appearances for the senior side, however he gained experience on loan at Haverfordwest (August 2009 to May 2010) and Forest Green Rovers (August to October 2010). Moving to Redditch in July 2011 he again found himself out on loan again, on this occasion at Brackley Town (July to September 2011) before signing for Bedford Town in September 2012 where he made 28 league appearances scoring two goals. At the end of March 2013 he signed for Kidderminster Harriers where he made 61 league appearances with a short loan spell at Worcester City (January to February 2014). A move to Dover Athletic in July 2015 saw him remain there for two seasons making 80 appearances scoring five goals in all competitions and gain a winners’ medal in the Kent Senior Cup, after which he moved to Cheltenham Town in July 2017 where he made 49 appearances scoring three goals in all competitions in the 2017-18 season.

Having been released by Cheltenham Town the 27 year old, 6ft 4in tall, defender signed a one-year deal with Macclesfield Town in June 2018, as newly appointed manager Mark Yates’ first signing. Featured regularly as a central defender in the first three months of the season but lost his place when central defender Nathan Cameron was signed in November 2018, making just two more starts and was an unused substitute on several occasions during the remainder of the season.

Having been released by Macclesfield Town at the end of June 2019 signed for Ebbsfleet United in July 2019 from where he was released at the end of the 2019-20 season, signing for Hereford in August 2020. Having decided to leave the Bulls in the summer of 2021 he subsequently signed for Chesterfield remaining with them upto and including the 2024-25 season and was appointed captain during the 2022-23 season.

Appointed Head of Futsal at JMF Coaching from November 2019.

Born: 22 December 1990.

   

Gritton Martin Francis

Martin Gritton

2007-08 and 2008-09 Forward

FL   League 40(12)13    Cups 7(1)3

Debut 18 August 2007 Sub MK Dons (Home)

Another player who started his playing career in the non-League scene, but at the age of 20 signed for Plymouth Argyle from Porthleven in August 1998 (44 league appearances, seven goals), moving to Torquay United in July 2002 (93 appearances, 23 goals). In December 2004 he made the move to Grimsby Town (49 appearances, six goals) and then onto Lincoln City in January 2006 (27 appearances, three goals). Spent time on loan at Mansfield Town from January 2007 (19 appearances, six goals) before being released by Lincoln in the summer of 2007.

He signed a two-year deal with Macclesfield Town in the summer of 2007. Martin scored on his debut within minutes of his introduction from the substitutes’ bench, and went on to feature regularly in the starting line-up in the first half of the 2007-08 season.  In the second half, he was troubled by injury which severely restricted his appearances, although he completed the season as second top-scorer. A good target man who can hold the ball up well and is equally proficient defending set pieces, Martin scored five goals in six matches in November/December 2008.

Left the Silkmen for Chesterfield in the 2009 January transfer window to take advantage of a two and a half year contract (29 appearances, five goals) spending time on loan at Torquay United for six months from July 2010 (12 appearances). On his return to Chesterfield he left at the end of January 2011 when his contract was terminated by mutual consent. Martin then spent the last few weeks of the season at Yeovil Town (two appearances) but moved to Stockport County in the summer of 2011 and Truro Town in the summer of 2012 on a non-contract basis.

On leaving Truro Town Martin retired from playing football when he moved to London where he works in sports Public Relations. In addition, he has media connections featuring on BBC Radio Devon covering teams from the West Country when they appear in London, is involved in a podcast called 'Whistle Blowers: The Football Podcast' and 'The 72' on TalkSPORT2.

Born: Glasgow, 1 June 1978.

 

Groves

1978-79

NPL    Cups 0(1)0

Debut 29 January 1979 Sub Altrincham (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup R1

There is no information recorded about this player.

 

Gunn Francis Hezekiah 'Bob'

Gunn_Francis

1934-35 Inside-left

CL     League 11 Apps 6 Goals     Cups 4 Apps 3 Goals

Debut 25 August 1934 Buxton (Home)

Before signing for Macclesfield played for Northwich Vics and Witton Albion. Featured regularly in the early months of the season and scored several goals including three in the FA Cup. Once Reginald Ward was signed, Gunn lost his place but played in the reserve side, however, his contract was cancelled in February 1935 when he returned to Witton Albion and then Nantwich Town. Also made an appearance for Macclesfield's 1939-40 war-time team.

Became an accomplished cricketer as wicketkeeper for Northwich Cricket Club in the Manchester Association.

Died: Vale Royal, Cheshire January 1965.

 

Guttridge William Henry 'Bill'

Guttridge

1962-63 and 1963-64 Left-back

CL    League 72 Apps 0 Goals    Cups 21 Apps 2 Goals

Debut 18 August 1962 Buxton (Home) 

Bill was a popular personality starting his career with the Metroshaft Works team before moving to Wolverhampton Wanderers where he featured mainly in the reserve side making the occasional senior appearance.  Unable to break into the Wolves team he moved to Walsall in November 1954 where he remained for eight years making over 200 appearances, often as captain.

A cartilage injury forced his retirement as professional player in 1962 when he moved to the semi-professional game at Macclesfield. Described a  good, strong defender who was a whole hearted player, Bill must have recovered from his cartilage injury as he appeared regularly for the Silkmen. Was Sportsman of the Year for the 1962-63 season.

On leaving Macclesfield he moved to Stourbridge.  He was also a youth coach at Walsall and managed Darlaston.

Away from football, after he retired from playing he worked for Service Work Appliances in Darlaston for 30 years in the washing machine paint spraying department where he was a shop steward.

Born: 4 March 1931. Died 6 April 2013.

 

TC

 

The Combination

 

1890-1897

SDL

Stockport and District League

1897-1898

NSL

North Staffordshire and District League

1898-1900

ML

Manchester and District League

1900-1912

LC

Lancashire Combination

1911-1915

CL

Cheshire League

1919-1968

NPL

Northern Premier League

1968-1987

Conf

Vauxhall Conference

1987-1997

FL

Football League

1997-2012

NC

National Conference

     Blue Square Premier 

     Skrill Premier 

     Vanarama Conference 

     Vanarama National League 

 

2012-2013

2013-2014

2014-2015

2015-2018

FL

English Football League

    Sky Bet League 2 

2018-2020

 

 

From 1965 statistics are shown - Appearances(Substitutes)Goals

 

 

#Known appearances and goals.    Due to the style of reporting there is no information for teams/goal scorers for some matches and in other cases it has only been possible to extract part teams from match reports. In addition, some matches over the Christmas and Easter holiday periods, together with end of season matches, have not been reported.

  

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