David Clarke
Difficult one having started going in 82 and missed Neale. David Clarke possibly. There's others already mentioned but most had some dodgy spells.
— Shane Clarke (@ImpGunner) March 26, 2018
Clarke was a skilful left back who joined City in our Conference season from Notts County. It was a big decision in the summer of 1987 to drop out of the Football League to join the newly relegated Imps. He made a goal scoring debut against Stafford Rangers in September 1987, and went on to make 30 league appearances as we secured promotion back to the league at the first attempt.
Prior to his life as an Imp he had been a really promising full back, capped by England Youths in 1983/84. His ability shone through in that first season as well, he was composed and cultured at all times.
Following our promotion, he stayed around for five and a half seasons. His tenure was often interrupted by injuries, but every time he came back and dropped comfortably back into the side. He hit both goals in our two legged Littlewoods Cup tie with Southampton in our first season back, and a winner in front of over 6,000 against Peterborough the season after.
The 1990/91 season was a non-starter as injury restricted him to just 14 league appearances, but he had two more solid seasons after that at left back. However, he couldn’t go on bouncing back for ever, and just seven outings under Keith Alexander spelled the end for the popular defender. He made his last appearance in October 1993 as we lost 2-1 to Doncaster Rovers, and was released after spending the majority of the season injured.
Without a doubt Geoff Smith, would have played higher than the old league 2 but I believe was happy to stay part time with City whilst running his own chicken farm near Sheffield.
I agree a classy full back.
George Peden, if only for his penalty taking, could not half hit a ball.
Mind you he was one tough full back.
Surprised d Denis Leigh didn’t get a mention
Hadn’t realised Jeff Smith was p/time.