Gary Simpson (10 June 1959 – October 2023) was a talented English footballer who made his mark as a forward in The Football League. He is remembered for his contributions to clubs such as Chesterfield and Chester City during his playing career.
Early Career
Gary Simpson’s football journey began in his hometown with Chesterfield. He started as a young talent and gradually climbed the ranks to earn a spot in the senior squad. During his time with Chesterfield, Simpson made over 40 league appearances, showcasing his skills and potential.
Move to Chester
In the summer of 1981, Simpson took a significant step in his career by transferring to Chester, a fellow Third Division side. This move came at a transfer fee of £6,000. It’s worth noting that Chester had previously attempted to sign Simpson’s Chesterfield colleague Ernie Moss but had been unsuccessful. Simpson’s arrival aimed to strengthen Chester’s squad, which at the time consisted of just 14 professional players.
Simpson’s debut for Chester was memorable, as he found the back of the net in a Football League Trophy match against Bury. His scoring prowess continued throughout the season, and he emerged as the club’s top scorer with 12 league goals to his name. Despite his individual success, Chester finished at the bottom of the league table.
One of the standout moments of Simpson’s time with Chester was his return to Chesterfield, where he scored two goals in a thrilling match that ended in a 5–3 victory for Chester. This victory was particularly noteworthy, given the challenging playing conditions characterized by monsoon-like rains.
Later Career and Retirement
In the following season, Simpson continued to make a mark, adding six more league goals to his career tally. However, at the end of the season, he was among eight players released by Chester. After leaving Chester, Simpson’s football journey took him to Oswestry Town. Later in the 1983–84 season, he played for Bangor City in the Alliance Premier League.
Passing
On 2 October 2023, the football community received the somber news of Gary Simpson’s passing. He left behind a legacy of skill, dedication, and memorable moments on the football pitch.
While Gary Simpson may no longer be with us, his contributions to the sport and the clubs he represented will be fondly remembered by football enthusiasts. His love for the game and his talents as a forward continue to be a part of football’s rich history.
