Steve Coppell
Testimonial August 17th 1986 v Real Sociedad

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In February 1975, after a little over a year as a professional footballer with Tranmere, Stevie Coppell was snapped up by Tommy Docherty for £60,000 and thrust into United's Second Division title challenge.

Employed as an orthodox right winger he helped United clinch the title and then terrorised First Division defences as United bucked the trend for defensive football. Coppell appeared in both the 1976 and 1977 FA Cup Finals.

Under Dave Sexton he was given a deeper role on the right of United's midfield, but continued to impress and maintained his place in United's starting XI. On November 7th 1981 he created a new club record that is likely to remain unbeaten - 206 consecutive League appearances.

Playing for England in a World Cup qualifier eleven days later he was injured after an horrific tackle. Three knee operations followed but Coppell was forced into early retirement in October 1983.

After his playing career was over Coppell pursued a career in management. He has had four spells as manger at Crystal Palace, as well as periods in charge at Manchester City (it took him just 33 days to realise his mistake), Brentford, Brighton, Reading and finally Bristol City.

Steve Coppell:
396 appearances (3 as substitute)
70 goals