Mike Sutton (footballer) facts for kids
| Personal information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Michael John Sutton | ||
| Date of birth | 5 October 1944 | ||
| Place of birth | Norwich, England | ||
| Date of death | 26 December 2020 (aged 76) | ||
| Position(s) | Midfielder | ||
| Youth career | |||
| 1960–1962 | Norwich City | ||
| Senior career* | |||
| Years | Team | Apps | (Gls) |
| 1962–1967 | Norwich City | 51 | (3) |
| 1967–1970 | Chester | 138 | (9) |
| 1970–1972 | Carlisle United | 53 | (1) |
| c.1976–1984 | Great Yarmouth Town | ||
| *Club domestic league appearances and goals | |||
Michael John Sutton (born October 5, 1944 – died December 26, 2020) was an English professional football player. He played as a midfielder in the Football League for three different clubs. His sons, Chris and John, also became professional footballers, following in their father's footsteps.
Playing Career
Mike Sutton started his football journey in his hometown of Norwich. He joined Norwich City and became a professional player in September 1962. Over the next five years, he played more than 50 league games for the club.
After his time at Norwich, Mike moved to Chester. He had thought about quitting football, but Chester's manager, Peter Hauser, convinced him to keep playing. Mike was a very consistent player for Chester. He played in almost every league game for three seasons.
Later, he joined Carlisle United in a transfer worth £10,000. This move happened when Chester City was facing money problems. Sadly, Mike had to stop playing professional football just two years later because of an injury.
After his professional career ended, Mike decided to go back to school. He spent four years studying physical education and biology at Loughborough University. He then became a teacher at Hellesdon High School in Norwich.
Even though he was teaching, Mike couldn't stay away from football. He returned to the game, playing for Great Yarmouth Town for eight years. He also started coaching young players at Norwich City, sharing his experience with the next generation.
Outside of football, Mike was also very active in cricket. He was involved with Drayton Cricket Club for many years. He even served as the club's chairman from 2003 to 2005.
Later Life and Passing
Mike Sutton passed away on December 26, 2020, at the age of 76. For about ten years before his death, he had been living with dementia. His son, Chris Sutton, spoke publicly about his father's health. Chris did this as part of a campaign to encourage football leaders to do more. The campaign aimed to protect players from possible long-term effects of repeatedly heading the ball during games.
