John Ridley

John Ridley (born 27 April 1952) is an English former footballer, described by Jeff Kent as "tall and elegant". As a young man, Ridley played for Sheffield University and other English Universities, he graduated from Vale juniors to sign professional forms with Port Vale in July 1973. By March 1975 he was a first team regular, and an ever-present for the 1975-76 season, for which he was awarded Player of the Year in 1976. In May 1978 he was loane... more

John Ridley (born 27 April 1952) is an English former footballer, described by Jeff Kent as "tall and elegant". As a young man, Ridley played for Sheffield University and other English Universities, he graduated from Vale juniors to sign professional forms with Port Vale in July 1973. By March 1975 he was a first team regular, and an ever-present for the 1975-76 season, for which he was awarded Player of the Year in 1976. In May 1978 he was loaned to American side Fort Lauderdale Strikers, he returned in August after getting ill. In October 1978, Ridley was sold to Leicester City for a then club-record £55,000 fee. After time with City and Chesterfield, he returned to Vale in July 1982. After three more seasons he joined Stafford Rangers for £700 (after a tribunal) in a player-coach capacity. He went on to become assistant manager at Rangers, as well as having spells with Matlock Town, Eastwood, Rists United and Silverdale Athletic. After finishing his football career, Ridley went on... less