A Vale Legend: Roy Sproson, 85 years on…
To mark the 85th anniversary of Port Vale legend Roy Sproson’s birthday, here are a selection of OVF features about the great man.
About Roy Sproson…
Burslem-born Roy is considered to be the Vale’s greatest player. He made his debut in 1949 and was a key member of the legendary 1953-54 record-breaking side. He continued playing until 1972 when he finally retired after 837 starts and 5 substitute appearances. He was manager of the side between 1974 and 1977. Roy sadly passed away in 1997 but his legacy and that of the Sproson family is celebrated by the Roy Sproson statue outside the main entrance to Vale Park. The inscription on the statue reads:
“Though three decades as a player and captain he made a record 837 appearances for Port Vale and scored 35 goals. He was a true-legend who combined style and steel with loyalty. The very spirit of Port Vale ran through this unique man who also went on to manage the club.”
Roy Sproson was born on the 23rd September 1930 and to mark the 85th anniversary of his birth, here are a selection of our articles:
- Clipping Hero #7: Roy Sproson
- Flashback: Roy Sproson honoured in 1969
- Roy Sproson in quotes
- Vintage Roy Sproson interview
- 1967: Roy’s 700th and Tommy’s debut
- Sproson and Whalley’s testimonial, 1964
- 1970: 750 games and counting for Roy…
In addition, here are some of our clippings of Roy Sproson: