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Jimmy Greenhoff
Jimmy Greenhoff
Jimmy Greenhoff
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James Greenhoff (born 19 June 1946) is an English former footballer. He was a skilful forward but, although capped five times at under-23 level (being on one of those occasions an over-age player),[3] he never played for the full side and is labelled as the finest English player never to play for England.[4] He made nearly 600 appearances in league football.[5] His younger brother Brian was also a professional footballer.[6]

Key Information

Greenhoff began his career at Leeds United in 1963, at the time that the club sought promotion from the Second Division in 1963–64; Leeds went on to be First Division runners-up in 1964–65 and 1965–66. He also played in the 1967 and 1968 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup finals. He won both the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup and League Cup in 1968 before he was sold to Birmingham City. In 1969, he made a £100,000 move to Stoke City. He won the League Cup with Stoke in 1972 and also lifted the Watney Cup in 1973. He was moved on to Manchester United in 1976 and lifted both the FA Cup and Charity Shield in 1977. He was switched to Crewe Alexandra in December 1980 before joining Port Vale via Toronto Blizzard in August 1981. He was appointed player-manager at Rochdale in March 1983 before he resigned in March 1984.

Career

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Leeds United

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Greenhoff was born in Barnsley.[1] He started his career as an apprentice with Leeds United in June 1961, having impressed in the centre-half position for Barnsley Schoolboys.[4] He was coached by Syd Owen.[7] He turned professional at the club in August 1963, and made his senior debut as a 16-year-old.[4][8] Leeds finished the 1963–64 season as champions of the Second Division under Don Revie's stewardship. The "Peacocks" then went on to finish 1964–65 as First Division runners-up, with champions and hated rivals Manchester United finishing above them on goal average. Leeds again finished second in 1965–66, six points behind champions Liverpool; however, Greenhoff missed much of the season with an ankle injury and a head injury sustained from a car crash.[4] They then finished fourth in 1966–67, five points off the summit; Revie began to convert Greenhoff from a winger into a centre-forward.[4] He turned out against Dinamo Zagreb at Elland Road in the second leg of the 1967 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup final, a goalless draw, Leeds lost the tie 2–0 on aggregate.

Once again, they finished fourth in the First Division in 1967–68, five points behind champions Manchester City. Greenhoff played 37 games,[9] including a memorable 7–0 victory over rivals Chelsea on 7 October. He went on to appear in the League Cup final in 1968 after recovering from a knee injury; United beat Arsenal 1–0 thanks to a 20 yards (18 m) strike from Terry Cooper.[4] Greenhoff went on to score four of Leeds' 19 goals past minnows CA Spora Luxembourg in the 1967–68 instalment of the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. He also appeared as a half-time substitute in the first leg of the final, a 1–0 home win over Ferencvárosi TC, which was enough to secure Leeds the trophy after a goalless draw in Budapest.[4] Greenhoff played a total of 136 games for Leeds in league and cup, scoring 36 goals.

Birmingham City

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He was bought by Birmingham City manager Stan Cullis in August 1968, who paid the Yorkshire club a £70,000 fee.[10] The transfer came as a surprise to many Leeds fans.[4] Greenhoff made a huge impact at Birmingham, scoring 15 goals in 36 games (in all competitions) as the "Blues" finished 1968–69 seventh in the Second Division.[4] During the campaign he scored four goals in a 5–4 win over Fulham at St Andrew's on 5 October.[4] Despite this, Cullis told him he was not scoring enough goals.[7]

"All I wanted to do was entertain the wonderful fans. Make them go away thinking 'God, that was brilliant'. They were a big part of my game. So warm."

— Greenhoff became an idol to Stoke fans second only to Stanley Matthews, and the feeling was mutual.[7]

Stoke City

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In August 1969, he left Birmingham for Tony Waddington's Stoke City in a deal worth £100,000,[11] which was a club record for Stoke. He made the switch despite late interest from Everton.[7] He hit nine goals in 37 games in 1969–70, a tally beaten by strike partners Harry Burrows and John Ritchie. He slotted in seamlessly in the team, connecting Ritchie with the midfield by feeding off Ritchie's knock-downs and bringing the wide players into the game.[7] In 1970–71 he hit ten goals in 43 games, appearing in Stoke's FA Cup semi-final defeat to eventual winners Arsenal.[4] He missed an easy chance that would have put Stoke 3–0 ahead, and in an interview in 2011 he said the miss "still gets to me".[12]

He played for the "Potters" at Wembley against Chelsea in the 1972 Football League Cup final, which ended in a 2–1 win for Stoke – the only major trophy in the club's history. He also helped the club to the FA Cup semi-finals in 1972, his goal at Old Trafford cancelling out George Best's effort and earning Stoke a replay, which they won. The win over Manchester United left Stoke again facing Arsenal in the semi-finals. A 1–1 draw at Villa Park led to a replay at Goodison Park; Greenhoff scored for City in the replay, but Arsenal won the game 2–1 after John Radford scored from a clear offside position.[12] Former club Leeds beat the "Gunners" in the final. He played 54 games in 1971–72, scoring 16 goals, two fewer than John Ritchie.

He scored twenty goals in 46 appearances in 1972–73, making him the club's top-scorer. These goals included a hat-trick at home to Manchester City on 23 September and a brace against City at Maine Road in a 3–2 defeat in the FA Cup. He hit ten goals in 44 games in 1973–74, not including his brace against Hull City in the final of the Watney Cup at the Victoria Ground. Greenhoff then began to play to the best of his abilities with the arrival of Alan Hudson.[7] He scored 15 goals in 47 games in 1974–75, making him the club's top-scorer for a second time after he outscored Terry Conroy and Geoff Hurst by two and four goals respectively. A volley against former club Birmingham in December 1974 was voted ITV's goal of the season.[11] He hit 13 goals in 46 games in 1975–76, making him the club's joint-top scorer along with Ian Moores. England manager Don Revie picked Greenhoff to play against Wales in March 1976, but he was unable to play due to it clashing with a league fixture and never got another chance at international level.[7]

After three goals in 16 games in 1976–77, he was sold to Tommy Docherty's Manchester United in November 1976 for £120,000; with Stoke needing the money to pay a bill for £250,000 to repair the Victoria Ground following a powerful wind-storm.[11][12] Though Docherty intended him to play alongside Stuart Pearson,[13] the move also meant that he would play alongside his brother, Brian Greenhoff. He scored 97 goals for Stoke in 338 league and cup starts, putting him ninth in the club's overall goalscoring charts. A legend at the club, many Stoke fans consider him to be the greatest England player never to win a senior cap.[11]

Manchester United

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He scored twelve goals in 34 games for United in 1976–77, bagging a hat-trick against Newcastle United on 19 February.[13] However, he greatest contribution would be in the FA Cup. He scored both United's goals in a 2–1 win over Southampton in a Fifth round replay before he put the "Red Devils" into the final by scoring past former club Leeds in a 2–1 semi-final victory at Hillsborough. He then went on to score the winner in the final after getting in the way of Lou Macari's wayward shot; in doing so he denied opponents and bitter rivals Liverpool the treble.[14]

He appeared in the 1977 FA Charity Shield, which ended as a goalless draw,[15] leaving Manchester United and Liverpool to share the shield. Greenhoff finished the 1977–78 campaign with six goals in 28 games.[13] He finished 1978–79 as the club's top-scorer with 17 goals,[13] and supporters voted him Player of the Year.[4] He also played in the 1979 FA Cup final, which Arsenal won 3–2 thanks to a last-minute Alan Sunderland goal.[16] Though this was as close as manager Dave Sexton would come to a major honour as United boss, Sexton did sign Joe Jordan, who would form a successful partnership with Greenhoff.[13] United finished second in 1979–80, two points behind Liverpool, as Greenhoff was limited to just five games due to injury.[13] He played twelve games in 1980–81.[13]

Later career

[edit]

He was allowed to join Crewe Alexandra in December 1980.[17] Greenhoff had scored a total of 36 goals in 123 appearances (including four substitute appearances) for Manchester United.[13] He was reunited with former boss Tony Waddington, and though Crewe were a struggling Fourth Division side, Greenhoff managed four goals in eleven league games. He moved to North American Soccer League side Toronto Blizzard in March 1981, then led by Keith Eddy. The "Blizzard" were a poor side and finished bottom of their division, despite Greenhoff scoring six goals in 24 games.[10]

He returned to Stoke-on-Trent to sign a two-year contract with Port Vale in August 1981.[18] He played 38 games in 1981–82, but scored just three goals for the Fourth Division side as manager John McGrath played him out of position on the left.[10] Greenhoff struck twice in 17 games in 1982–83.[18] Notably, on 6 November, local paper The Sentinel reported a "Heavy defeat for Port Vale" after Vale were 3–0 down to Rochdale at Spotland at half-time, only for Greenhoff to inspire a fightback for the "Valiants", and help the club to a 3–3 draw.[18] On 3 January, he scored a volley from 30 yards (27 m) out in a 2–1 win over York City at Vale Park.[19] York manager and former Stoke teammate Denis Smith said that "it was a world-class goal".[20]

He joined Rochdale in March 1983, where he was appointed player-manager. He played 17 games for the "Dale" but did not find the net. Under his management, the club avoided the re-election zone in 1982–83 but again struggled in 1983–84, and he left the club in March 1984,[21] later returning to Vale Park for a brief spell as a coach and assistant manager under John Rudge.[22]

Style of play

[edit]

Greenhoff could play with both feet and was known for his dangerous runs into the opposition penalty area.[11] He was a talented and skilful player who had great positional strength and a tremendous volley.[13] He liked to play "no-look" passes.[23]

Post-retirement

[edit]

Greenhoff suffered a financial crisis following a failed insurance venture and took up work in a warehouse.[24] The crisis came about after discovering that his friend and business partner of nine years had been conning him out of large sums of money.[25]

Career statistics

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Playing statistics

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Appearance and goals by club, season and competition[26]
Club Season League FA Cup League Cup Europe Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Leeds United 1962–63 Second Division 2 0 0 0 0 0 — — 2 0
1963–64 Second Division 2 0 0 0 1 0 — — 3 0
1964–65 First Division 9 2 1 1 1 0 — — 11 3
1965–66 First Division 12 1 1 1 0 0 3[a] 0 — 16 2
1966–67 First Division 29 7 6 0 3 1 4[a] 2 — 42 10
1967–68 First Division 37 11 3 0 7 3 11[a] 4 — 58 18
1968–69 First Division 3 0 0 0 0 0 1[a] 0 — 4 0
Total 94 21 11 2 12 4 19 6 0 0 136 33
Birmingham City 1968–69 Second Division 31 14 5 1 0 0 — — 36 15
Stoke City 1969–70 First Division 33 9 3 0 1 0 — — 37 9
1970–71 First Division 33 7 8 3 2 0 — 5[b] 1 48 11
1971–72 First Division 35 8 7 5 12 3 — 5[c] 3 59 19
1972–73 First Division 41 16 1 2 2 2 2[d] 0 0 0 46 20
1973–74 First Division 39 9 1 0 4 1 — 3[e] 3 47 13
1974–75 First Division 39 14 1 0 5 1 2[d] 0 0 0 47 15
1975–76 First Division 40 11 5 1 1 1 — — 46 13
1976–77 First Division 14 2 0 0 2 1 — — 16 3
Total 274 76 26 11 29 9 4 0 13 7 346 103
Manchester United 1976–77 First Division 27 8 7 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 34 12
1977–78 First Division 23 6 3 0 0 0 1[f] 0 1[g] 0 28 6
1978–79 First Division 33 11 9 5 2 1 0 0 0 0 44 17
1979–80 First Division 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 1
1980–81 First Division 9 0 0 0 2 0 1[d] 0 0 0 12 0
Total 97 26 19 9 4 1 2 0 1 0 123 36
Crewe Alexandra 1980–81 Fourth Division 11 4 0 0 0 0 — — 11 4
Toronto Blizzard 1981 North American Soccer League 24 6 — — — — 24 6
Port Vale 1981–82 Fourth Division 33 3 4 0 2 0 — — 39 3
1982–83 Fourth Division 15 2 1 0 1 0 — — 17 2
Total 48 5 5 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 56 5
Rochdale 1982–83 Fourth Division 12 0 0 0 0 0 — — 12 0
1983–84 Fourth Division 4 0 0 0 1 0 — — 5 0
Total 16 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 17 0
Career total 595 152 66 23 49 14 25 6 14 7 749 202
  1. ^ a b c d Appearances in Inter-Cities Fairs Cup
  2. ^ Three appearances and goal in Anglo-Italian Cup and two appearances in Texaco Cup
  3. ^ Three appearances and two goals in Anglo-Italian Cup and two appearances and one goal in Texaco Cup
  4. ^ a b c Appearances in UEFA Cup
  5. ^ One appearance in Texaco Cup and two appearances and three goals in Watney Cup
  6. ^ Appearance in European Cup Winners' Cup
  7. ^ Appearance in FA Charity Shield

Managerial statistics

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Managerial record by team and tenure
Team From To Record
P W D L Win %
Rochdale[27] 1 March 1983 12 March 1984 49 11 17 21 022.4
Total 49 11 17 21 022.4

Honours

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Leeds United

Stoke City

Manchester United

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jimmy Greenhoff

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Jimmy Greenhoff (born 19 June 1946) is an English former professional footballer who played primarily as a forward during a career spanning over two decades in the Football League. Renowned for his intelligent movement, silky first touch, and versatility, Greenhoff made nearly 600 appearances and scored more than 150 goals across multiple clubs, though he never earned a full international cap for despite widespread acclaim as one of the finest uncapped players of his generation. Greenhoff began his professional career with Leeds United, joining as a youth player and making his debut at age 16 on 15 May 1963. He contributed to their Second Division title win in 1963–64 and was part of the squad that secured the League Cup in 1968—the club's first major trophy—and the that same year. Over five seasons, he made 137 league appearances for Leeds, scoring 33 goals, before transferring to Birmingham City for £70,000 in 1968, where he scored 15 goals in 36 appearances during a single productive season. In 1969, Greenhoff joined Stoke City for a then-club-record £100,000 fee, becoming a key figure in Tony Waddington's successful side. He helped Stoke win the League Cup in 1972—their only major honour—and the in 1973, amassing 338 appearances and 97 goals over seven years, establishing himself as a fans' favorite. His time at Stoke ended controversially in November 1976 when he moved to Manchester United for £120,000 amid the club's financial difficulties following storm damage to their stadium; there, he scored the winning goal in the against , securing United's first major trophy in nine years, and added the Charity Shield later that year. Greenhoff made 123 appearances for United, scoring 36 goals, before departing in 1980. Greenhoff's later career took him to lower divisions, including brief spells with Crewe Alexandra (1980–81), Port Vale (1981–83), and (1983–84), where he retired at age 38. Post-retirement, he briefly managed Port Vale alongside his brother and worked in roles, but his legacy endures as a skillful, team-oriented player whose contributions to three major clubs defined an era of English football.

Early life

Birth and family background

Jimmy Greenhoff was born on 19 June 1946 in , , , into a working-class family amid the town's prominent community. Barnsley's industrial heritage, centered on mining and , provided the backdrop for his early years, where modest living conditions were the norm for many families like his own, often residing in terraced housing with limited amenities. He was the older brother to , born seven years later in 1953, who would also pursue a professional football career, notably as a defender for Manchester United and earning 18 caps for . The brothers shared a close bond through their mutual passion for football from a young age, with Brian often looking up to Jimmy and following him into local school teams in . This early sibling connection fostered a supportive family environment, though financial constraints shaped their experiences, such as relying on free tickets to watch Jimmy's youth games. Greenhoff received his basic education at local schools in , where the town's working-class ethos and industrial influences contributed to his grounded outlook on life. The family's humble circumstances, reflective of broader mining community challenges, instilled a sense of resilience that defined his early development.

Introduction to football and youth development

Jimmy Greenhoff first showcased his natural talent for football in local Barnsley school teams, emerging as a promising attacking wing-half during his mid-teens. Playing for Schoolboys, he helped the side secure the Yorkshire Cup and the English Schools’ Shield in 1961 while still aged 14. His performances also earned him representation for Schoolboys, highlighting his skill and potential in organized football. Scouted for his standout displays, Greenhoff signed apprentice forms with Leeds United in June 1961 at the age of 15, marking his entry into professional youth development. He joined as one of manager Don Revie's emerging young talents, training alongside future stars like Gareth Sprake and Norman Hunter in the club's youth setup. Under Revie's guidance, Greenhoff refined his technical skills and tactical awareness within ' youth academy, competing in the Northern Intermediate League where the team—boasting an average age of just 16—demonstrated significant promise. By 1963, following the completion of his apprenticeship in August, he began making appearances in reserve matches, transitioning toward more competitive environments. Greenhoff's early youth career was not without challenges, as he adapted to the intense physical demands and heightened competition of professional training. Positioned initially as a right half before shifting toward forward roles, he faced stiff from established midfielders like and , as well as other emerging prospects such as Eddie Gray and , which tested his resilience in securing regular playing time. Supported by his working-class family roots, these experiences laid the foundation for his professional progression.

Club career

Leeds United

Jimmy Greenhoff made his professional debut for United during the 1963–64 season, appearing as a substitute in a 3–1 defeat to on 15 May 1963 at the age of 16 years and 330 days. Over the subsequent six seasons, he amassed 137 league appearances and scored 33 goals, establishing himself as a promising forward in a squad undergoing rapid transformation. His early contributions were instrumental in ' promotion to the First Division at the end of that debut campaign, where the team finished second in the Second Division under manager , marking the beginning of a sustained period of top-flight competitiveness. Under Revie's meticulous tactical regime, Greenhoff developed into a versatile attacker, initially deployed as a centre-forward before shifting to the right wing to accommodate emerging talents. He played a pivotal role in ' 1968 League Cup triumph, featuring in the final at where the team defeated 1–0 through Terry Cooper's long-range strike, while Greenhoff's earlier goals, including one against Bury in the third round, helped propel the side to victory. In the same year, Greenhoff contributed significantly to ' success, scoring four goals during the 1967–68 campaign—most notably in early rounds against opponents like CA Spora —and providing key assists in crucial European ties that led to a 2–1 aggregate win over in the final. His technical skill and positioning were highlighted in high-stakes matches, such as a 20-yard volley in a prior European encounter against , underscoring his growing influence in Revie's high-pressing, fluid system. By 1968, increasing squad depth—exemplified by the signing of Mick Jones as the primary striker—limited Greenhoff's opportunities at centre-forward, prompting him to request a transfer amid tactical shifts favoring a more rigid forward line. In August 1968, he departed Leeds for Birmingham City in a £70,000 deal, ending his time at on a high note with major trophies secured but seeking regular first-team action elsewhere.

Birmingham City

Jimmy Greenhoff joined Birmingham City from United in August for a fee of £70,000, marking a significant investment in the Second Division club as they sought to bolster their attacking options. Despite coming from the top-flight environment at , where opportunities had been limited amid fierce competition, Greenhoff quickly adapted to the demands of the lower tier, showcasing his versatility as a forward. His experience in high-stakes matches, including ' successful campaigns in the and , contributed to his confident integration into the team. In the 1968–69 season, Greenhoff made 36 appearances across all competitions, scoring 15 goals and playing a pivotal role in Birmingham's attacking play. He demonstrated clinical finishing and effective link-up play, particularly in partnership with striker Fred Pickering, which helped drive the team's momentum. A standout performance came on 5 October 1968, when he scored four goals in a thrilling 5–4 home victory over Fulham, including a hat-trick completed just 60 seconds after missing a penalty; described as "on fire" and a "hitman" for his ruthless efficiency despite the setback. These contributions were instrumental in Birmingham's solid mid-table campaign, as they finished seventh in the Second Division with 44 points from 42 matches, mounting a credible push for promotion under manager Stan Cullis but ultimately falling short of the top two spots occupied by Derby County and Crystal Palace. Greenhoff's form at Birmingham attracted attention from several top-flight clubs, leading to his departure in August 1969 when Stoke City secured his services for a club-record £100,000 fee. This move ended a productive but brief stint at St Andrew's, where his goal-scoring prowess had elevated the team's aspirations, even if promotion eluded them during his time there.

Stoke City

Jimmy Greenhoff joined Stoke City from Birmingham City in August 1969 for a club-record fee of £100,000, bringing his proven goal-scoring ability from the Second Division where he had netted 15 times in 36 appearances during the 1968–69 season. Under manager Tony Waddington, Greenhoff quickly established himself as a vital forward, contributing to an entertaining style of play that emphasized attacking football and helped the team secure mid-table finishes in the First Division. Over his time at Stoke, he made 338 appearances and scored 97 goals across all competitions, placing him ninth on the club's all-time scoring list. Greenhoff played a pivotal role in Stoke's 1972 League Cup triumph, their first major trophy, defeating Chelsea 2–1 in the final with goals from Terry Conroy and ; his involvement in build-up play, including shots that led to key chances, underscored his importance to the side's success in the competition. The following year, as newly appointed from the start of the 1973–74 season, he led Stoke to victory in the , scoring both goals in a 2–0 final win over Hull at the , a match that highlighted his clinical finishing and leadership on the pitch. His captaincy was instrumental in maintaining the club's First Division status during challenging periods, fostering team cohesion and contributing to fifth-place finishes in 1973–74 and 1974–75, which earned European qualification. In November 1976, amid financial pressures following severe storm damage to the Victoria Ground's Street stand roof in January 1976—which caused £250,000 in repairs and forced player sales—Greenhoff transferred to Manchester United for £120,000. This move marked the end of his influential seven-year stint at Stoke, where he had become a fans' favorite for his intelligent movement, versatility, and consistent contributions to the team's dynamic play.

Manchester United

Jimmy Greenhoff joined Manchester United from Stoke City in November 1976 for a transfer fee of £120,000, reuniting him with his brother at and providing manager with an experienced forward to bolster the squad during a challenging season. Over the next three and a half years, Greenhoff made 123 appearances and scored 36 goals for the club, often deployed as a versatile attacker who linked play effectively in midfield or up front. His arrival came at a pivotal time, as United sought to stabilize after relegation the previous year and build on their momentum in cup competitions. Greenhoff's impact was immediate and memorable in the 1976–77 FA Cup campaign, where he featured prominently after joining, including scoring in the semi-final replay against Leeds United. The highlight came in the final at on 21 May 1977, when United defeated rivals 2–1; Greenhoff netted the decisive goal in the 55th minute, a deflected effort off his chest from Lou Macari's shot that looped over goalkeeper . This victory marked United's first major trophy in nine years and ended 's hopes of a continental treble, with Greenhoff's opportunistic finish proving crucial in a match defined by intense and rapid scoring bursts. Later that summer, on 13 August 1977, United shared the Charity Shield with league champions following a 0–0 draw at , an outcome that honored both clubs' achievements from the prior season. In the subsequent seasons, Greenhoff became a key figure in United's revival under Docherty and later , contributing to their return to European football via the 1977–78 Cup Winners' Cup, where they reached the quarter-finals before elimination by . He also played in the , helping the team advance to the second round, and the 1979–80 Cup Winners' Cup, though they exited in the first round against . During the 1978–79 domestic campaign, Greenhoff emerged as United's top scorer across all competitions with 17 goals in 41 appearances, including 11 in the league, showcasing his clinical finishing and importance to a side that finished ninth but remained competitive in cups. His goals that season, such as volleys and close-range efforts, exemplified his technical prowess and helped maintain United's attacking threat amid squad transitions. By 1980, at age 34, Greenhoff's role diminished under new manager , who prioritized younger talent and squad rejuvenation following Sexton's tenure; he made his final appearance on 6 December 1980 in a 2–2 league draw against Norwich City before transferring to Crewe Alexandra later that month. This departure reflected the club's shift toward a more dynamic lineup, though Greenhoff's contributions had been instrumental in restoring United's status as a major force in English football during a transformative period.

Later career

Following his departure from Manchester United in December 1980, where injuries had limited his opportunities in the latter years, Greenhoff sought regular first-team football by joining Fourth Division side Crewe Alexandra on a short-term basis. During the 1980–81 season, he made 11 appearances and scored 4 goals for the club before moving on in early 1981. In March 1981, Greenhoff ventured overseas to the North American Soccer League, signing with Blizzard to continue his playing career abroad. He featured in 24 regular-season matches that year, contributing 6 goals as the team finished fifth in the Northern Division. His versatility as a forward, honed from earlier roles across multiple clubs, allowed him to adapt quickly to the NASL's style, though the stint lasted only until August 1981. Returning to , Greenhoff signed for Port Vale in the Fourth Division in August 1981, where he became a key squad member over the next 18 months. He made 48 appearances and scored 5 goals across the 1981–83 campaigns, providing experience and leadership that contributed to the team's successful promotion to the Third Division at the end of the 1982–83 season via a fourth-place finish. In March 1983, Greenhoff transitioned into a player-manager role at Fourth Division , aiming to combine playing with coaching responsibilities in the twilight of his career. He appeared in 16 matches without scoring during the 1983–84 season before resigning from the position in March 1984 and retiring from professional football at the age of 37.

International career

Youth international appearances

Jimmy Greenhoff earned five caps for the under-23 team between 1968 and 1976, scoring one during these appearances. His international youth career began while playing for Birmingham City, where his consistent performances as a forward contributed to his selection for the squad. Greenhoff made his debut on 2 October 1968 against at the in , opening the scoring in 's 3-1 victory. He followed this with a start in the 2-2 home draw versus the on 13 November 1968 at St Andrew's, Birmingham. In 1969, he appeared as a substitute in the 1-2 away defeat to the on 22 May before starting in the 1-0 win over four days later in . Greenhoff's final under-23 cap came in 1976 as an over-age player during the quarter-finals against , featuring in the first leg of the tie: a 0-3 away loss on 10 March at the Népstadion in (England lost the tie 4-3 on aggregate after a 3-1 home win on 23 March at ). Contemporary accounts highlighted his technical ability and potential as a versatile forward, though he never progressed to senior international level.

Senior England team considerations

Despite his evident talent and successful club career, Jimmy Greenhoff never earned a senior cap for the national team, a omission that has long puzzled observers and cemented his reputation among the finest players never to represent their country at the highest level. Peers and media frequently highlighted factors such as intense competition in the forward positions from established stars, including and Allan Clarke, as well as positional overcrowding exacerbated by the presence of multiple internationals at Leeds United like Norman Hunter and during his time there. Additionally, Greenhoff's skillful, creative style as a forward did not always align with the preferences of managers and , who favored more direct, physical approaches in an era dominated by such tactics. Greenhoff's closest brush with a senior appearance came in March 1976 under Revie, who named him to the squad for a match against but ultimately overlooked him when the fixture clashed with a rearranged Stoke City league game against County, forcing his withdrawal. Earlier that month, Revie had selected Greenhoff for an Under-23 game against , positioning him out of his natural attacking role on the right wing, a decision Greenhoff later attributed to deliberate sabotage, stating, “He didn’t want us to shine. He didn’t want us to play for .” Beyond his five Under-23 caps, which built on his international foundation, Greenhoff received no opportunities with the Under-21 or B teams, further limiting his pathway to senior recognition. In later reflections, Greenhoff expressed disappointment over the missed international chance but came to accept it, emphasizing his fulfillment through club achievements such as the 1972 with Stoke City and the 1977 with Manchester United. This sentiment underscores the timing and politics of England selection during the , where club loyalties and managerial biases often overshadowed individual merit.

Style of play

Technical skills and attributes

Jimmy Greenhoff was renowned for his two-footed proficiency, allowing him to strike the ball effectively with either foot during his career. This technical versatility complemented his exceptional volleying ability, exemplified by his precise strikes from crosses that showcased his timing and power. His on the pitch was further highlighted by his use of "no-look" passes, a deceptive technique that bamboozled defenders and created scoring opportunities for teammates. Greenhoff's intelligence in positioning and anticipation within the were key attributes, enabling him to exploit spaces and arrive at the right moment to finish moves. Despite his modest height of 5 ft 10 in, he demonstrated notable heading ability, rising to meet deliveries and contributing to his overall threat in the box. These skills underscored his technical gift as a forward, earning praise for his composure and unselfish movement. Throughout his professional tenure, Greenhoff exhibited consistency across various divisions, amassing 146 league goals in 571 appearances. His adaptability allowed him to transition seamlessly from a winger in his early years to a central striker role later on, maintaining his effectiveness regardless of position.

Positional versatility and team role

Greenhoff demonstrated remarkable positional versatility throughout his career, capable of operating as an inside-forward, second striker, or on the wing, which allowed him to adapt seamlessly to varying tactical demands. At Leeds United under , he excelled in a fluid system that emphasized dynamic movement, often starting from the right midfield to make incisive runs and contribute to the team's intricate passing patterns. This adaptability made him a reliable squad player, capable of filling multiple roles including right-half and even left-back when needed. His unselfish style of play further defined his team role, as he frequently dropped deep to link midfield and forwards, prioritizing collective success over individual glory. At Manchester United, for instance, Greenhoff's intelligent positioning facilitated key setups for teammates, exemplified by his contributions in the 1977 campaign where his movement created scoring opportunities amid high-stakes matches. Such traits earned him a reputation as a "manager's dream" due to his professionalism and willingness to adapt across different eras and systems, from Revie's disciplined to Tony Waddington's more attacking setup at Stoke City. At Stoke, Greenhoff thrived as a central figure in Waddington's forward-thinking formation, blending his versatility with clinical finishing—often highlighted by spectacular volleys—to drive the team's success in cup competitions. His intelligence on the pitch solidified his legacy as an adaptable asset in evolving tactical landscapes.

Post-playing career

Managerial positions

Greenhoff's managerial career was confined to roles in the lower tiers of English football, where he combined playing duties with leadership responsibilities at struggling clubs. At Port Vale in the 1982–83 season, Greenhoff served as a key player and briefly as interim manager alongside his brother , appearing in 17 league matches and scoring 2 goals while contributing to the team's successful promotion from the Fourth Division to the Third Division under manager John McGrath. In March 1983, he took up the position of player-manager at in the Fourth Division, succeeding Peter Madden. His tenure at lasted until March 1984, during which the team contested 54 matches across all competitions, recording 13 wins, 18 draws, and 23 losses for a win percentage of 24.07%; the primary objective was to ensure survival in the division, but inconsistent results prevented any significant improvement in the club's standing. Greenhoff was sacked in March 1984 amid a poor run of form that left vulnerable to relegation. Drawing on his experience as an attacking forward from his playing days at clubs like Manchester United and Stoke City, Greenhoff attempted to implement an offensive-oriented style at , though the club's limited budget and facilities restricted his ability to recruit quality players or execute his vision effectively. Following his dismissal from , Greenhoff did not pursue further head management roles.

Coaching and administrative roles

After retiring from his playing career in 1984, Greenhoff pursued coaching opportunities in lower-league English football. He returned to Port Vale as an assistant coach under , where he focused on youth development and mentoring young players during the mid-1980s, drawing on his experience to guide emerging talents in technical skills and match preparation. Greenhoff also had a brief advisory role at Crewe Alexandra from 1985 to 1987, providing support in player development without taking a full-time head position. His post-playing involvement in football was primarily low-profile, including and informal player mentoring across clubs, as he avoided high-profile administrative or managerial roles in major leagues. By the late , Greenhoff transitioned away from football to non-sporting ventures, including a failed business in the that led to financial difficulties and subsequent work in warehouses and a pharmaceutical company in .

Personal life

Family relationships

Jimmy Greenhoff has been married to Joan Greenhoff since the early years of his professional , with their long-term providing steadfast support through various transitions and personal challenges. In a 1977 interview, Joan described their life as that of "just an ordinary ," emphasizing the normalcy they maintained despite Jimmy's rising football profile, and noting how she managed household matters to ease his pre-match tensions. Their has been characterized by mutual reliance, with Jimmy crediting Joan as a key source of emotional strength during difficult periods. The couple are parents to two children, daughter Julie and son Mark, born in the early 1970s. Julie was seven years old at the time of Joan's , while Mark was four, and both reportedly viewed their father's occupation as routine work rather than stardom. Neither child pursued a professional football career, instead opting for paths outside the , aligning with the family's emphasis on and a grounded lifestyle. Greenhoff's son holds particular sentimental value for family mementos, such as Jimmy's 1977 winner's medal, which influenced his decision to retain it despite financial pressures. The family later expanded to include at least one grandson, Marcus, whom Jimmy has described doting on affectionately. Greenhoff shares a familial connection with his younger brother, , a fellow professional footballer who earned senior caps for and played alongside Jimmy at Manchester United from 1976 onward. Their close bond was evident during shared club successes, including Manchester United's 1977 victory, where the brothers contributed to the team's triumph and provided mutual family support amid the demands of top-level football. This sibling partnership extended to professional relocations, such as Jimmy's 1976 transfer from Stoke City to Manchester United to join Brian, which Joan noted as a shocking but ultimately manageable adjustment that did not require uprooting the family home in . The brothers' relationship, once seemingly inseparable, later became strained following a dispute in the , though it underscored the deep family ties that defined their earlier years. Throughout his life, Greenhoff has portrayed a family-oriented image, prioritizing privacy and avoiding public exposure of personal matters, with no reported scandals involving his relatives. Interviews highlight the family's role in fostering stability during career moves, such as the shift to , where Joan's adaptability ensured continuity for their young children. This reserved approach has allowed Greenhoff to maintain a low-profile domestic life, centered on supportive partnerships and generational bonds.

Later years and challenges

In the late 1990s, Greenhoff faced a severe stemming from a failed he established after retiring from roles. His was jailed for mismanaging funds, leaving Greenhoff cleared of any wrongdoing but personally responsible for settling substantial debts, which resulted in the loss of his home and financial stability. To support himself, Greenhoff took up employment as a at a wallpaper warehouse in , , a role he maintained into the early 2000s despite his distinguished playing career. He demonstrated resilience by refusing to sell his 1977 winners' medal, a symbol of his achievements with Manchester United, even amid the hardships. Family provided crucial support during this difficult period, helping him navigate the fallout. In August 2019, at age 73, Greenhoff suffered a health scare when he fell ill at ahead of a Manchester United match against Chelsea and was hospitalized; he later recovered and returned home. Greenhoff has led a low-key life in retirement. In interviews reflecting on his career, he has expressed occasional "what if" thoughts about earning senior caps, given his under-23 appearances and reputation as one of the era's most skilful forwards never to break through at full international level. He has avoided writing an , instead emphasizing gratitude for his football experiences over any regrets. Greenhoff resides in the area. Media coverage has highlighted his resilience in overcoming personal setbacks, portraying him as a grounded figure content with a simple post-career existence.

Career statistics

Playing statistics

Jimmy Greenhoff amassed 682 appearances and 181 goals across all competitive club competitions during his professional career from 1964 to 1984. His league record in English football totaled 571 appearances and 146 goals, across various divisions. Below is a breakdown of his league by club.

League Statistics by Club

ClubDivisionAppearancesGoals
Leeds UnitedSecond/First Division13733
Birmingham CityFirst Division3615
Stoke CityFirst Division27476
Manchester UnitedFirst Division9726
Crewe AlexandraThird Division111
Port ValeFourth Division485
Fourth Division160
Total619156
In domestic cups, Greenhoff recorded 37 appearances and 15 goals in the , including the opening goal in Manchester United's 2-1 victory over in the 1977 final. He made 30 appearances and scored 8 goals in the League Cup, contributing to wins with in 1968 and Stoke in 1972. Additionally, he appeared in 19 miscellaneous cup matches, scoring 6 goals.

Cup and European Statistics by Club

ClubFA Cup (Apps/Goals)League Cup (Apps/Goals)Other Cups (Apps/Goals)European (Apps/Goals)
Leeds United8/212/40/019/6 (Fairs Cup)
Birmingham City0/00/02/10/0
Stoke City13/610/26/212/3 (Cup Winners' Cup & UEFA Cup)
Manchester United16/78/211/34/1 (UEFA Cup)
Other Clubs0/00/00/00/0
Total37/1530/819/635/10
Greenhoff also featured once in the Charity Shield for Manchester United (0 goals) and played 5 matches for U23, scoring 1 goal. Including non-competitive friendlies and lower-division appearances for clubs like Crewe Alexandra, Port Vale, Toronto Blizzard, and , his overall career exceeded 700 appearances and 200 goals.

Managerial statistics

Jimmy Greenhoff's managerial tenure was limited to lower-division English football, where he faced typical challenges such as budget constraints and squad instability in the Football League's basement tiers. His primary role came as player-manager at Rochdale, spanning the end of the 1982–83 season and much of the 1983–84 campaign in Division Four.

Rochdale (1983–84)

Greenhoff took charge on 1 March 1983, initially as player-manager, and was sacked on 12 March 1984 after overseeing 49 league matches with a record of 11 wins, 18 draws, and 20 losses. Including cup competitions, his overall record stood at 55 games, with 13 wins, 19 draws, and 23 losses, yielding a win rate of approximately 23.6%. Rochdale finished 22nd in Division Four in 1983–84, narrowly avoiding relegation.
CompetitionGames (P)Wins (W)Draws (D)Losses (L)Win %
League Division Four4911182022.4
All Competitions5513192323.6

Port Vale (interim, 1982–83)

Prior to , Greenhoff served in an interim capacity at Port Vale during the 1982–83 season in Division Four, managing limited fixtures with a reported 10 games yielding 5 wins that contributed to the club's promotion as runners-up. Detailed records for this spell are sparse, reflecting its temporary nature. Greenhoff held no other full-time managerial positions, with his experience highlighting the difficulties of sustaining success in lower-league environments amid frequent club changes and resource limitations.

Achievements

Team honours

During his professional career, Jimmy Greenhoff contributed to several major team successes across his clubs, earning winners' medals for key domestic and European trophies. With Leeds United, Greenhoff was part of the squad that secured the 1968 , appearing as a substitute in the 1-0 final victory over at . He also contributed to the Second Division title win in 1963–64 with appearances in the promotion season. He featured prominently in the club's 1968 campaign, making 11 appearances and helping advance through the competition before his mid-season transfer, earning a winners' medal for the 1–0 aggregate triumph over . At Stoke City, Greenhoff played a central role in the 1972 win, starting in the 2-1 final against Chelsea and contributing to the buildup of the decisive second goal by . He captained Stoke to the 1973 , leading the team to a 2-0 victory over Hull City in the final at the . Greenhoff's honours continued with Manchester United, where he scored the match-winning goal in the , a 2-1 defeat of that ended a decade-long wait for major silverware. He also appeared in the 1977 FA Charity Shield, a 0-0 draw with that resulted in a shared . Greenhoff did not earn any international team honours, having never been capped at senior level for .

Individual accomplishments

During his time at Manchester United, Greenhoff emerged as the club's leading goalscorer across all competitions in the 1978–79 season, netting 17 goals in 42 appearances. His contributions were pivotal in a campaign that saw United finish ninth in the First Division while reaching the . At Stoke City, where he spent seven prolific years from to 1976, Greenhoff ranks eighth on the club's all-time list of top goalscorers with 103 goals in 338 appearances, underscoring his enduring impact as a forward. Greenhoff's technical prowess and consistency earned him widespread recognition as one of the best uncapped English players of his generation, a sentiment echoed by contemporaries and media in the 1970s, including praise from former Manchester United manager for his intelligence and team-oriented play. Despite earning five caps at under-23 level, he never broke into the senior squad, a omission often attributed to stiff competition during a golden era for English forwards. One of his standout individual moments came in December 1974, when he scored a stunning volley against Birmingham City in a 3-0 victory, a strike later voted Goal of the Season by ITV and regarded by Greenhoff himself as his finest. In recognition of his legacy, Greenhoff was inducted into the Stoke City Hall of Fame as part of the club's expanded list honoring players with over 150 league appearances, celebrating his 274 outings and key role in the 1972 triumph. Retrospectives in 2025 have further highlighted his status as an underrated forward of the , praising his elegance in linking play, creativity, and versatility despite lacking international caps or widespread acclaim beyond club level.

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