Dalian Atkinson

Dalian Robert Atkinson (born 21 March 1968 in Shrewsbury, Shropshire) is an English former footballer who played as a striker. Atkinson is probably most often remembered for his magnificent solo goal against Wimbledon which won a BBC Match of the Day Goal of the Season competition. He is also fondly remembered by Aston Villa fans for his inspirational performance and crucial goal in the 1994 League Cup final win against Manchester United. Atkinso... more

Dalian Robert Atkinson (born 21 March 1968 in Shrewsbury, Shropshire) is an English former footballer who played as a striker. Atkinson is probably most often remembered for his magnificent solo goal against Wimbledon which won a BBC Match of the Day Goal of the Season competition. He is also fondly remembered by Aston Villa fans for his inspirational performance and crucial goal in the 1994 League Cup final win against Manchester United. Atkinson first came to prominence at Ipswich Town as a teenager, impressing seasoned experts with his speed and daring. He then moved on to Sheffield Wednesday for £450,000 where he formed a fine front partnership with David Hirst for a single season before moving to Real Sociedad for £1.7m. When signed by Aston Villa for £1.6m he became one half of another impressive partnership, the so-called D-Men (AKA Deadly Duo), alongside Dean Saunders, when Saunders arrived from Liverpool. The partnership was broken in 1995 when both players were sold to... less