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Stephen Michael Gleeson (born 3 August 1988) is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Southern League Division One Central club Hitchin Town.

Key Information

Gleeson played youth football in his native Dublin before coming to England at the age of 15 to join Wolverhampton Wanderers. He rarely played first-team football for them, but spent time on loan to lower-league clubs Stockport County (three separate spells), Hereford United and Milton Keynes Dons, before signing a three-year contract with the latter club in 2009. After five years, during which time he made more than 200 appearances in all competitions, Gleeson moved on to Birmingham City. He spent three and a half seasons at Birmingham, making more than 100 appearances in the Championship. He has since played for Ipswich Town, Aberdeen, Solihull Moors and Hemel Hempstead Town.

At international level, Gleeson was capped twice for the Republic of Ireland in 2007, and was not capped again for nearly ten years. He also represented his country at under-age levels, and made 16 appearances for the under-21 team.[3]

Club career

[edit]

Early life and club career

[edit]

Gleeson was born in Dublin,[1] an only child, and raised in Crumlin, in the south of the city.[4] As a youngster he admired Roy Keane, and tried to model his game on that of Steven Gerrard.[5] He played for nearby Lourdes Celtic before moving on to Cherry Orchard. In the 2002–03 season, he scored a winning goal against a title rival to win the 14 Premier League,[6] and scored with an "excellent volley" as Cherry Orchard won the SFAI under-15 Evans Cup the following year.[7] Recommended to Wolverhampton Wanderers by their Irish scout, Willie Byrne, Gleeson came to England as a 15-year-old for a trial, and joined their academy.[8]

He made his reserve-team debut on 24 August 2004 as a late substitute in their first home fixture of the season[9] – three weeks after his 16th birthday – and by October 2004, he was starting.[10] He helped Wolves' youth team reach the semifinal of that season's FA Youth Cup, but was sent off in extra time in the second leg, and Wolves lost on penalties to Southampton.[11] He continued to appear regularly for the reserves. In 2005–06, he scored 4 goals from 16 reserve-team appearances, and at the beginning of May 2006, he signed his first professional contract, of three years.[12] Describing him as a playmaker with "good pace [who] gets forward, with an eye for goal", academy manager Chris Evans said that Gleeson had trained with the first team "from time to time" and had impressed manager Glenn Hoddle.[13]

First steps in senior football

[edit]

Gleeson was given a first-team squad number for 2006–07,[14] through by the time the season began, Hoddle had resigned and been replaced by Mick McCarthy.[15] Gleeson joined League Two club Stockport County on a month's loan in November, with the aim of gaining experience and returning to Wolves to fight for a first-team place.[16] An unused substitute in County's next match, Gleeson made his senior debut on 11 November in a 2–1 victory at Exeter City in the FA Cup, and his first appearance in the Football League came the following weekend in the starting eleven for a 1–1 draw away to Chester City.[17] The loan was extended for a second month,[18] and on 9 December, he scored his first senior goal, a header from Adam Proudlock's cross to complete a 5–2 win against Darlington. He said afterwards that he "just closed [his] eyes and hoped for the best".[19] He thought his second goal had come a few days later, when his last-minute 30-yard (27 m) shot off the crossbar appeared to cross the line before bouncing out for Liam Dickinson to seal a 2–0 win against Notts County.[20]

His loan was again extended,[21] and by the time it expired he had made 17 appearances, scored again, with a tap-in as Stockport beat Wycombe Wanderers 2–0,[22] and his manager was "sad to see him go, [but] also excited for him because he is going to have a great future in the game. He leaves as a better player with more self-confidence and one who deserves to play at a higher level."[23] The supporters designated his final appearance, against Hereford United, "Stephen Gleeson Day".[24]

McCarthy recalled Gleeson to Wolves to be part of the first-team squad,[25] and he returned "bursting with confidence and desperate for a first team chance",[26] only to find a winning team and strong competition for a place in midfield.[26][27] He made the first-team bench for the first time on 3 March,[28] and made his Wolves debut on 9 April, as a late substitute in a 3–1 defeat of Hull City. He made two more brief league appearances, and played for half an hour in the second leg of the play-off semi-final, which Wolves lost 4–2 on aggregate. He came close to creating a goal for his side when his long ball forward was deflected past Albion's goalkeeper by a defender, who managed to recover in time to clear it off the line.[29]

More loan moves

[edit]

After Gleeson's pre-season was disrupted by injury,[30] he damaged a hip in the League Cup in late August,[31] and a month later, he was allowed home leave to recover from concussion and a loss of feeling in the leg sustained in collision with the opposing goalkeeper in a reserve match.[30] He captained the reserves,[5] but made no more appearances for the first team before joining League Two club Hereford United on 21 February 2008 on a month's loan.[32] Starting in central midfield against local rivals Shrewsbury Town, the Hereford Times reported that he "struggled to come to terms with the pace of the game during the first half but showed his quality in the second period",[33] a performance that earned him a place in the League Two Team of the Week.[34] In his second match, he should have done better with a shooting chance,[35] and after the third, a defeat to promotion rivals Stockport, manager Graham Turner made several changes; Gleeson lost his place to first-team regular Toumani Diagouraga who returned after injury.[36] Because Hereford had more loanees than the five permitted in the matchday squad,[33][37] Gleeson was not always involved, but he did come back into the side as a second-half substitute on 22 March. Although Turner wanted to retain his services,[38] he returned to Wolves and promptly rejoined Stockport until the end of the season, subject to a 24-hour recall clause.[39]

Gleeson with Stockport County in 2008

Gleeson played in six of Stockport's remaining seven regular-season league matches as they finished fourth, and faced Wycombe Wanderers in the play-off semi-final. In the first leg, at Wycombe's Adams Park ground, Stockport were a goal behind when half-time substitute Gleeson "sent an effort from 25 yards out spiralling past goalkeeper Frank Fielding with eight minutes remaining";[40] the Daily Telegraph's reporter termed it a "blistering" volley and a "piledriver".[41] The goal was later voted Stockport's Goal of 2008 by fans.[42] Early in the second leg, the danger from his "ridiculous" headed back-pass was only averted by his goalkeeper's agility, as Stockport went on to win the match 1–0.[43] He started in the final, in which Stockport beat Rochdale 3–2 to win promotion to League One.[44]

His association with Stockport continued the following season as he spent the first half of the campaign on loan with the club.[45] Gleeson accused Wolves of "a bit of a bullying tactic" in trying to make him sign a contract extension before allowing him to move – he resisted, saying there was no hurry, and he would not sign unless the terms were acceptable[46] – and was fined two weeks' wages for criticising the club. Stockport manager Gannon claimed the player had been so upset by the matter that he had considered giving up the game.[47] He missed only four of Stockport's thirty matches during the loan spell:[48][49] one while on international duty with the Ireland under-21 team[50] and three while suspended after being sent off for an off-the-ball incident.[51] He scored three goals – each time with a powerful shot from at least 15 yards (14 m)[52] – and when his loan spell ended, the team were fifth in the division.[49]

Gleeson returned to his parent club, and signed a one-year extension to his contract.[53] Injuries and suspensions among the Wolves players prevented his going out on loan until late March,[54] when he joined League One club Milton Keynes Dons for the remainder of the season.[55] He provided two assists for Mark Wright as MK Dons won 2–0 at Southend United,[56] and generally impressed "with his all-action performances and slick passing"[57] in four consecutive wins, but on his fifth appearance, suffered ankle ligament damage that kept him out of their ultimately unsuccessful play-off campaign.[58]

Milton Keynes Dons: the first three seasons

[edit]

Following Wolves' promotion to the Premier League, Gleeson was made available for transfer. He had played under Roberto di Matteo's management while on loan at MK Dons, and despite Di Matteo's departure for West Bromwich Albion and replacement by Paul Ince, he signed a three-year contract with the club on 1 July 2009. the fee, officially undisclosed,[59] was described as nominal.[57] He was used in various midfield positions, including wide on the right, which was not to his taste,[60] and at the base of a diamond,[61] and was encouraged to break up play as well as perform his more accustomed creative role. After a 1–0 win against Wycombe Wanderers in September, Ince said that Gleeson "set the tempo for the game in the first minute with a great tackle and we just pushed on from there."[62] MK Dons had begun the season as possible promotion contenders, but a strong start gave way to a slide into midtable, in which indiscipline was a factor.[63] By mid-February, the team had received 100 yellow cards, far more than any other; Gleeson was a major contributor with 10, which earned him a two-match suspension.[64] He was booked twice more before his season ended early when he damaged medial knee ligaments.[65][66]

Gleeson's knee recovered in time for pre-season training,[67] and he began the 2010–11 season in the unaccustomed position of right back, to which new manager Karl Robinson thought him well suited.[68] He injured his back in his second appearance and was out of action for three months. When he did return, in his more usual position of central midfield, he "[showed] all his customary composure and quality in possession" in a friendly match,[69][70] and went on to play in every competitive fixture until the final one of the regular season,[69][71] for which, with a play-off place secure, Robinson selected a young team.[72] He scored twice, the first a "wonder goal" from 30 yards (27 m) against Leyton Orient in January 2011 that won the club's Goal of the Season award.[73][74] In the first leg of the play-off semi-final, MK Dons took a 3–1 lead, but with ten minutes left, Gleeson was sent off for bringing down Mark Little and a penalty was awarded and converted.[75] The sending-off was rescinded on appeal, but Peterborough United won the second leg 2–0, qualifying for the final 4–3 on aggregate, and Gleeson and teammate Keanu Marsh-Brown came to blows in frustration.[76] In June, Peterborough's reported £600,000 offer for Gleeson was rejected.[77]

Gleeson was appointed vice-captain in July 2011. Both player and manager hoped the responsibility might curb his hot-headedness and help him mature.[78] Early in the new season, he confirmed that he wanted to play at Championship level, so was not going to sign a new contract until he knew whether MK Dons were to be promoted or not.[79] The club's website highlighted his central midfield partnership with Darren Potter, a new signing with whom Gleeson had played for Wolves' reserves and in international football, as integral to the team's good start to the season,[80] and the pair helped MK Dons come close to eliminating Premier League Queens Park Rangers in the third round of the FA Cup.[81] He played in 39 of the 46 League One matches and scored 5 league goals[82] as the team were rarely out of the play-off positions,[83] but indiscipline remained an issue. On 6 March, he returned from suspension for his tenth yellow card, only to be sent off for kicking an opponent late in the home defeat to Yeovil Town. After a lengthy talk with the player, manager Robinson stated publicly that if Gleeson did not learn from his mistakes, he would not be offered another contract.[84] He and Potter were both named in the Professional Footballers' Association's League One Team of the Year,[85] and together with winger Luke Chadwick were among the top ten players as chosen by the League One managers.[86]

MK Dons narrowly failed to overcome a 2–0 deficit to Huddersfield Town in the second leg of the play-off semi-final.[87] Gleeson was in tears afterwards, and Robinson said that the criticism he had received during the season for an apparent attitude problem was misplaced.[88] According to the manager, his "[looking] like he's moody, doesn't care and only does it for himself" is a misperception; "he gets wrapped up the fact that he cares so much – sometimes he shows it in the wrong way."[89] Despite interest from numerous Championship clubs, Gleeson signed a new two-year contract, saying that he wanted to play at that level with MK Dons and with Robinson.[90]

Another two years

[edit]

Robinson's team, built round Gleeson, Potter and Chadwick, were second in the table by the end of November.[91] On 2 December 2012, Gleeson produced another goal from distance to open the scoring in MK Dons' first meeting with AFC Wimbledon. MK Dons won 2–1 to progress to the third round of that season's FA Cup,[92] and the goal was voted the club's goal of the season. A couple of weeks later, he suffered a break in his left foot during training, which coincided with Chadwick damaging knee ligaments.[93] During their absence, MK Dons dropped down the league.[94] Gleeson returned in a match against Doncaster Rovers on 5 March 2013, which he celebrated with a goal to seal a 3–0 victory.[95] Captaining the side in Dean Lewington's absence through injury in April, Gleeson scored a late winner against Brentford to lead the team to a second consecutive victory[96] as they went on to finish four points outside the play-off places. Robinson speculated whether the disruption to the team caused by Gleeson's and Chadwick's injuries might have cost them promotion.[91]

Early in the new season, Gleeson played an influential part in MK Dons twice coming from a goal behind to draw with Bristol City, "barking out orders and putting in the miles as he tracked box-to-box, popping up all over the pitch with vital tackles and hold-up play."[97] In December, while still returning to form and fitness,[98] he produced another "wonder goal" against Port Vale,[99] and followed it up in the next week match a similar effort to open the scoring as MK Dons won 2–0 at Crawley Town.[100] His performances and those of the team – their only defeat came in a match for which Gleeson was suspended, after a fifth yellow card received for unnecessary involvement in someone else's dispute in the Crawley match[100] – earned him a nomination for League One Player of the Month.[101] By the end of the season, Robinson suggested that the team had reached "a stage when some of the players have run their race here".[102] Although he was "desperate" for Gleeson to stay,[103] he was not prepared to be kept waiting for a decision.[104]

Birmingham City

[edit]
Gleeson before a Birmingham City match in April 2016

On 9 June, Gleeson signed a two-year contract with Championship club Birmingham City, to begin when his MK Dons contract expired at the end of the 2013–14 season.[105] The Irish Independent's Daniel McDonnell suggested he was one of several Irish players who needed to prove themselves in the coming season.[106] He made his debut in the starting eleven for the opening-day defeat at Middlesbrough,[107] but failed to establish himself in the team: of the twelve league matches under Lee Clark's management, he started five and came on as a substitute in five[108] as Birmingham dropped towards the relegation places. Clark's successor, Gary Rowett, included Gleeson in his first starting eleven, playing in front of the defensive line in a goalless draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers.[109] This time, Gleeson did keep his place, tasked with "launching the counter-attacks" from Rowett's preferred 4–2–3–1 formation[110] as his "effective midfield partnership" with David Davis[111] started 18 consecutive league matches.[110] Gleeson was sent off for retaliation in February 2016 as Birmingham beat Brentford,[111] and new loan signing Robert Tesche of Nottingham Forest took his place alongside Davis.[112] He returned to the side after his suspension as part of a three-man midfield, but when Rowett reverted to 4–2–3–1, it was Gleeson's passing that earned him selection ahead of Davis as Tesche's partner.[110]

Ahead of the 2015–16 season, Gleeson signed a two-year extension to his contract that took its expiry date to 2018.[113] Having gone through 2014–15 without scoring, he produced two goals in nine days in August 2015, contributing to his nomination for the Championship Player of the Month.[114] The first came just before half-time at home to Derby County when his 30-yard (27 m) shot was deflected past the goalkeeper by a defender.[115] For the second, away to his former club MK Dons, he curled Clayton Donaldson's cutback over the goalkeeper into the corner of the net; later in the match, he was stretchered off with an ankle injury that proved less serious than initially feared.[116] He continued as first choice in a two-man midfield, generally partnering new signing Maikel Kieftenbeld,[114] and according to the Birmingham Mail, was "arguably Blues' most important player, knitting together defence and attack and adding goals to his game".[117] After an influential performance and a 25-yard (23 m) goal in a 5–2 win away to Fulham in November, Rowett sais he "[didn't] think there [was] a better passing defensive midfielder in the division."[118] His celebration of a fortuitous goal in a 3–0 win at Derby earned him a booking for inciting the home supporters, and he apologised to the stewards after the match.[119] Both his and the team's performances dipped towards the end of the season,[120] which he finished with five goals from 46 appearances in all competitions.[121]

Gleeson was linked with moves to other Championship clubs, including Leeds United, Reading and Sheffield Wednesday, during the close season, and his pre-season was disrupted by an infected toe, but he still began the new campaign in the starting eleven.[122][123] His selection as a starter was intermittent, dependent on injuries – his own or others' – as well as on the sheer number of central midfielders available, especially after the creative Reece Brown returned to consideration.[123][124] Playing a more advanced role in a 4–4–2 formation, Gleeson scored a winning goal against Blackburn Rovers in October,[125] which preceded a run in the starting eleven, under both Rowett and his successor, Gianfranco Zola.[108][126] As poor results continued, Zola introduced Tesche, whom he perceived as more capable defensively,[126] and Gleeson started only one match in the last two months of the campaign.[108]

Ipswich Town

[edit]

Gleeson left Birmingham on a free transfer on 19 January 2018, and signed until the end of the season for another Championship club, Ipswich Town, under the management of Mick McCarthy who had given him his debut at Wolverhampton Wanderers.[127] He made his first appearance the following day, as a half-time substitute in a 1–1 draw away to Bolton Wanderers, and according to McCarthy – perhaps in response to fans reportedly "underwhelmed" by the arrival of a fringe player from a struggling side – was "a mile above anyone else in terms of getting it and passing it."[128] Facing strong competition for places in central midfield, his first-team appearances became infrequent – five starts and five as substitute – and he was not offered a new deal.[129]

Aberdeen

[edit]

Gleeson signed a two-year contract with Scottish Premiership club Aberdeen in June 2018.[130] His contract was cancelled in January 2020.[131]

Non-league football

[edit]

Having played no competitive football since 2019, Gleeson signed a one-year contract with National League club Solihull Moors in August 2020.[132] He made 21 league appearances before leaving the club when his contract expired at the end of the season.[108][133]

Gleeson signed for Hemel Hempstead Town of the National League South ahead of the 2021–22 season.[134] After recovering from injury, he made his debut on 21 August in a 3–0 home defeat to Braintree Town.[135] He left the club at the end of September after making six appearances.[136][108][137] He reappeared at Hitchin Town of the Southern League Premier Division Central in November.[138]

International career

[edit]

Gleeson was capped at under-15 and under-16 level,[139] before making his debut for the Republic of Ireland under-17 team in 2004.[140] His Football Association of Ireland (FAI) profile described his performance in the first qualifying round of the 2005 UEFA European Under-17 Championship as outstanding.[139] Ireland finished second in their group, so progressed to the elite round. Gleeson scored as his team beat Northern Ireland 2–1, but defeats to Serbia and Montenegro and England meant they failed to reach the tournament proper.[141]

He first appeared for the under-19s at the age of 17 years 6 months – a year younger than most of his teammates – against Scotland in a friendly tournament at La Manga in February 2006.[142][143] After a couple of appearances at under-18 level,[144] Gleeson was included in the squad for that year's European Under-19 Championship elite qualification round. He started one match and played as a substitute in the other two; Ireland lost all three.[143][145] He was vice-captain of the under-19 team as they reached the same stage of the 2007 competition, but withdrew from the qualifiers because of club commitments with Wolves in the Championship play-offs.[146]

Gleeson was the youngest of eleven uncapped players included by Steve Staunton in the Ireland squad for a two-match visit to the United States in May 2007.[147] He made his senior international debut as a 79th-minute substitute in a 1–1 draw with Ecuador at Giants Stadium on 23 May,[148] and also played in the second match, a 1–1 draw with Bolivia, again as a substitute.[149] Years later he admitted that "I don't think I did my best out there. I was a bit overawed: the senior team, 18 years of age, with all these names around me."[150]

Three months later, Gleeson marked his under-21 debut with both goals in a 2–2 friendly draw with Germany.[151] He went on to make 16 appearances at under-21 level,[152] and captained the team in November 2009 in a 4–1 defeat against Armenia in a European Championship qualifier.[153]

Despite his early introduction to the senior team, Gleeson was not called up again for nine years.[154] He had previously expressed disappointment at his omission even when 40-man squads were named for Ireland matches,[155] but in March 2016 manager Martin O'Neill selected him in the squad for friendlies against Switzerland and Slovakia.[154] He was an unused substitute in both matches.[156][157] Gleeson received a late call-up to the senior squad for a friendly at home to Iceland in March 2017, and this time did take the field, as a second-half substitute, winning his third cap nearly ten years after his second; Ireland lost 1–0.[158] He was included in a weakened squad for two internationals in the United States in June, and on 1 June, he scored his first goal for Ireland, three minutes after coming on as a substitute in a 3–1 defeat to Mexico at the MetLife Stadium.[159]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
As of match played 7 October 2023
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League National cup[a] League cup[b] Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Wolverhampton Wanderers 2006–07[17] Championship 3 0 — 0 0 1[c] 0 4 0
2007–08[44] Championship 0 0 0 0 1 0 — 1 0
2008–09[48] Championship 0 0 — — — 0 0
Total 3 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 5 0
Stockport County (loan) 2006–07[17] League Two 14 2 3 0 0 0 0 0 17 2
Hereford United (loan) 2007–08[44] League Two 4 0 — — 0 0 4 0
Stockport County (loan) 2007–08[44] League Two 6 0 — — 3[d] 1 9 1
2008–09[48] League One 21 2 3 1 1 0 1[e] 0 26 3
Total 27 2 3 1 1 0 4 1 35 4
Milton Keynes Dons (loan) 2008–09[48] League One 5 0 — — 0 0 5 0
Milton Keynes Dons 2009–10[65] League One 29 0 3 0 0 0 4[e] 0 36 0
2010–11[69] League One 36 2 2 0 0 0 2[f] 0 40 2
2011–12[82] League One 39 5 2 0 2 0 3[g] 0 46 5
2012–13[160] League One 30 6 3 1 3 0 1[e] 0 37 7
2013–14[161] League One 35 3 4 0 2 0 1[e] 0 42 3
Total 174 16 14 1 7 0 11 0 206 17
Birmingham City 2014–15[107] Championship 39 0 1 0 1 0 — 41 0
2015–16[121] Championship 44 5 0 0 2 0 — 46 5
2016–17[162] Championship 29 1 1 0 1 0 — 31 1
2017–18[163] Championship 5 0 0 0 2 0 — 7 0
Total 117 6 2 0 6 0 0 0 125 6
Ipswich Town 2017–18[163] Championship 10 0 — — — 10 0
Aberdeen 2018–19[164] Scottish Premiership 15 0 2 0 1 0 1[h] 0 19 0
2019–20[165] Scottish Premiership 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Total 16 0 2 0 1 0 1 0 20 0
Solihull Moors 2020–21[108] National League 21 1 2 2 — 2[i] 0 25 3
Hemel Hempstead Town 2021–22[108][137] National League South 5 0 1 0 — 0 0 6 0
Hitchin Town 2021–22[166] Southern League (SFL)
Premier Division Central		 16 0 — — 3[j] 0 19 0
2022–23[166] SFL Premier Division Central 29 0 1 0 — 1[i] 0 31 0
2023–24[166][167] SFL Premier Division Central 8 0 2 0 — 3[k] 0 13 0
Total 53 0 3 0 — 7 0 63 0
Career total 444 27 30 4 16 0 26 1 516 32
  1. ^ Includes FA Cup, Scottish Cup
  2. ^ Includes Football League Cup / EFL Cup, Scottish League Cup
  3. ^ Appearance in Championship play-offs
  4. ^ Appearances in League Two play-offs
  5. ^ a b c d Appearance(s) in Football League Trophy
  6. ^ Appearances in League One play-offs
  7. ^ One appearance in Football League Trophy, two appearances in League One play-offs
  8. ^ Appearance in UEFA Europa League
  9. ^ a b Appearance(s) in FA Trophy
  10. ^ Appearances in Herts Senior Cup
  11. ^ One appearance in Herts Charity Cup, one in Herts Senior Cup, one in FA Trophy

International

[edit]
As of match played 1 June 2017[168][159]
International statistics
National team Year Apps Goals
Republic of Ireland 2007 2 0
2017 2 1
Total 4 1

International goals

[edit]
Scores and results list the Republic of Ireland's goal tally first.
No Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition Ref
1 1 June 2017 MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, United States  Mexico 1–3 1–3 Friendly [159]

Honours

[edit]

Stockport County

Individual

References

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

Stephen Gleeson

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Stephen Michael Gleeson (born 3 August 1988) is an Irish professional footballer who plays as a central midfielder for Hitchin Town in the Southern League Division One Central, where he also serves as assistant manager.[1][2] Born in Dublin to Irish parents, Gleeson is right-footed and stands at 1.75 meters tall, having begun his professional career in English football after developing through the youth ranks at Cherry Orchard FC.[1] Gleeson's senior career started with Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2006, where he made limited first-team appearances but gained experience through loans to Stockport County and Hereford United. In 2009, he joined Milton Keynes Dons on a permanent basis, spending five seasons there and establishing himself as a key player in League One with 195 appearances and 18 goals across the division during his career. His performances earned him a move to Birmingham City in 2014, where he played over 100 matches in the Championship until 2018, contributing to the team's defensive solidity in midfield.[1] Subsequent spells at Ipswich Town, Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership, and Solihull Moors followed, with the latter marking a return to non-league football before joining Hitchin Town in November 2021 on a contract extending to June 2026.[2] Internationally, Gleeson represented the Republic of Ireland at under-21 level and earned four senior caps, including one goal, all in friendlies in 2007 and 2017.[1] Throughout his career, he has appeared in 130 Championship matches and 24 FA Cup games, scoring four goals in the latter competition, showcasing his versatility as a defensive and central midfielder.

Early life and youth career

Childhood and family background

Stephen Gleeson was born on 3 August 1988 in Dublin, Republic of Ireland.[1] Gleeson's family has strong ties to football, as he is the first cousin of fellow Irish international midfielder Glenn Whelan, with their fathers being brothers; the two grew up together in Dublin, sharing an early ambition to represent Ireland on the international stage.[3] Raised in the Crumlin area of south Dublin, Gleeson developed an early passion for football through local schoolboy clubs, notably joining Cherry Orchard FC as a youth player, where he honed his skills in amateur matches from a young age.[4][5] These formative experiences in Dublin's grassroots football scene laid the groundwork for Gleeson's move to the professional youth setup at Wolverhampton Wanderers at age 15.[6]

Entry into professional football

Stephen Gleeson, hailing from a supportive Dublin family background, began his entry into professional football through the youth ranks of Cherry Orchard FC in Ireland, where his talent as a midfielder caught the attention of scouts. At the age of 15, Gleeson traveled to England for a trial and impressed sufficiently to join the Wolves academy, embarking on a structured professional development pathway.[7] Within the Wolves academy, Gleeson progressed steadily through the youth system, starting with appearances at under-16 level and advancing to the under-18 team by 2005, where he honed his central midfield style characterized by tenacity and vision. That year, his performances earned him a spot in the Republic of Ireland under-17 national team, contributing a goal in a 2-1 victory over Northern Ireland during the UEFA European Under-17 Championship qualifiers.[8] Gleeson's development culminated in May 2006 when, at 17 years old, he signed his first professional contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers, securing a three-year deal and transitioning from academy scholar to full professional status. While specific youth awards are not prominently documented, his rapid rise marked him as a promising talent within the academy, eventually becoming the 50th Wolves youth graduate to feature in British league football by 2007.[9][10]

Club career

Wolverhampton Wanderers and early loans (2006–2009)

Gleeson signed his first professional contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers in May 2006 at the age of 17, having progressed through the club's youth academy after joining from Cherry Orchard in Dublin.[9] He made his senior debut for Wolves in the League Cup second round on 22 August 2006, playing the full 90 minutes in a 1–0 home win over Plymouth Argyle.[11] His league debut followed in the Championship on 9 April 2007, coming on as a substitute in a 3–1 victory against Hull City at Molineux.[12] Over the next few seasons, Gleeson made only four more first-team appearances for Wolves, primarily as a substitute in Championship matches, as competition for midfield places limited his opportunities under manager Mick McCarthy.[13] To gain regular playing time and develop his experience, Gleeson was sent on multiple loan spells to lower-league clubs starting in late 2006. His first outing was a one-month loan to League Two side Stockport County in November 2006, where he made 14 appearances without scoring, helping the team stabilize in mid-table.[14] He returned for a second loan to Stockport in March 2008 until the end of the season, featuring in six league games and scoring a memorable 25-yard volley in the League Two play-off semi-final first leg against Wycombe Wanderers on 11 May 2008, securing a 1–1 draw that contributed to Stockport's aggregate victory and promotion to League One.[15][16] In August 2008, Gleeson joined Stockport for a third loan until January 2009, making 20 appearances and scoring three goals in League One, though the team struggled and were relegated at the end of the campaign.[17] Gleeson's next loan came in February 2008 to League Two promotion contenders Hereford United on a one-month deal, where he made four appearances in central midfield, including a start against rivals Shrewsbury Town, but returned to Wolves without securing an extension due to limited impact amid the team's strong form.[18][19] These developmental moves were designed to build Gleeson's match fitness and tactical awareness away from the Championship's intensity, as McCarthy sought to prepare the young Irish international for potential first-team integration. Despite occasional call-ups to Wolves' squads, Gleeson never established himself in the starting lineup, appearing just five times in total for the club across all competitions from 2006 to 2009. In summer 2009, following Wolves' promotion to the Premier League, Gleeson was released by McCarthy after six years at the club, a decision the player later described as the best thing that happened to his career, providing motivation to seek consistent first-team football.[13][1]

Milton Keynes Dons (2009–2014)

Gleeson joined Milton Keynes Dons on loan from Wolves in March 2009 until the end of the 2008–09 season, making five appearances in League One.[20] He signed permanently with the club in July 2009 on a free transfer, beginning a five-year spell where he established himself as a key central midfielder.[21][1] In his first full seasons (2009–12), Gleeson adapted quickly to League One football, becoming a regular starter and anchoring the midfield with his defensive work rate and passing ability. He made over 100 appearances across all competitions in this period, scoring eight goals, and helped MK Dons achieve playoff contention in 2010–11 and a fifth-place finish in 2011–12. His standout 2011–12 season earned him selection to the PFA League One Team of the Year.[22][23] Gleeson signed a new two-year contract with Milton Keynes Dons in May 2012, committing his future to the club until June 2014.[24] Over the subsequent two seasons (2012–14), he featured consistently, making 79 appearances across all competitions and scoring 10 goals, helping the team achieve solid mid-table finishes of 8th in 2012–13 and 9th in 2013–14.[25] Notable contributions included a long-range goal in a 3–0 victory over League One leaders Doncaster Rovers in March 2013, underscoring his influence in key matches.[26] In total, Gleeson's tenure at Milton Keynes Dons from 2009 to 2014 saw him accumulate 206 appearances and 17 goals in all competitions, establishing him as a mainstay in the squad.[27][28] He departed on a free transfer to Birmingham City in June 2014 following the expiry of his contract.[29]

Birmingham City (2014–2018)

Gleeson signed for Championship club Birmingham City on a free transfer from Milton Keynes Dons in June 2014, agreeing a two-year contract.[29] He quickly became a regular in central midfield under manager Gary Rowett, contributing to the team's defensive solidity with his tackling and distribution. In his first three seasons (2014–17), Gleeson made 112 league appearances, scoring 6 goals, and helped Birmingham finish 10th, 16th, and 19th respectively, avoiding relegation battles through consistent performances.[27] Gleeson's 2017–18 season with Birmingham City was marked by limited playing time due to persistent injuries. He began the Championship campaign as part of the midfield under manager Harry Redknapp, featuring in the opening League Cup matches, including a 5–1 win over Crawley Town where he started.[30] He made five league appearances, starting three and accumulating 279 minutes, but recorded no goals or assists. The season saw managerial upheaval, with Redknapp departing in September 2017, followed by interim coach Lee Carsley and then Steve Cotterill taking over in October. A thigh injury sustained in November sidelined Gleeson for much of the campaign, restricting his integration into the squad during a turbulent period when Birmingham fought to avoid relegation.[31][32] Despite his reduced role, his experience was valued in a squad that ultimately survived on the final day of the season. On 19 January 2018, Gleeson mutually agreed to terminate his contract with Birmingham City five months before its expiry and signed for fellow Championship side Ipswich Town on a free transfer until the end of the season, seeking more regular football.[33]

Ipswich Town and Aberdeen (2018–2020)

In January 2018, Gleeson joined Ipswich Town on a free transfer from Birmingham City, signing a short-term contract until the end of the 2017–18 season.[34][35] During his stint at Portman Road, the midfielder made 15 appearances across all competitions, including 10 in the EFL Championship and 5 in the EFL Cup, but failed to score or provide assists.[27] His limited role reflected the transitional instability following his departure from Birmingham, where he had fallen out of favor.[36] Gleeson's contract with Ipswich expired at the end of the 2017–18 season, leading to his release in June 2018.[37] Shortly thereafter, on 19 June 2018, he signed a two-year deal with Scottish Premiership club Aberdeen on a free transfer, attracted by the opportunity for European football under manager Derek McInnes.[38][39] At Aberdeen, Gleeson initially earned starts in the Scottish Premiership, contributing to midfield stability, but his progress was disrupted by injuries—including a pre-season issue and a hip problem sustained in a Scottish League Cup match in August 2018—and frequent squad rotation.[6][40] In the 2018–19 season, he featured prominently in the UEFA Europa League qualifying rounds with one appearance and supported the team's second-place Premiership finish through 19 total outings across all competitions, recording one assist but no goals.[27] The 2019–20 season marked a sharp decline in Gleeson's involvement, as persistent fitness concerns and form struggles confined him to just one Premiership appearance.[27][41] On 31 January 2020, at age 31, his contract was mutually terminated after 20 appearances and no goals for the club, allowing both parties to pursue new directions amid his ongoing challenges with injuries and reduced minutes.[42][43]

Non-league clubs (2020–present)

Following his release from Aberdeen at the end of the 2019–20 season, Gleeson entered non-league football by signing a one-year contract with National League club Solihull Moors in August 2020.[44] He featured regularly in midfield during the 2020–21 campaign, making 21 league appearances and scoring 1 goal, while also netting twice in the FA Cup to help the team advance in the competition.[27] Solihull finished 10th in the league that season. In August 2021, Gleeson transferred to National League South side Hemel Hempstead Town on a free deal.[45] His time there was brief and disrupted by injuries, limited to 5 appearances without scoring before departing in early November. Gleeson joined Southern League Premier Division Central club Hitchin Town on November 5, 2021, also on a free transfer.[1] As a veteran central midfielder, he quickly became an influential figure, providing leadership and stability to the squad. In May 2024, he was appointed player-coach, leveraging his extensive professional experience to support the manager and guide the team.[46] His role expanded further, with confirmation in April 2025 that he would serve as player-assistant manager for the 2025–26 season, emphasizing his contributions to youth development and tactical input.[47] From the 2022–23 season onward, Gleeson adapted to part-time football at Hitchin, balancing playing duties with coaching responsibilities. He remained a consistent presence in the lineup, making regular appearances across league and cup matches while scoring occasional goals, including one in the 2024–25 campaign. As of November 2025, the 37-year-old continues to play actively for Hitchin Town, with his contract running until June 2026, and focuses on mentoring younger teammates through his advisory role.[1]

International career

Youth international appearances

Stephen Gleeson began his youth international career with the Republic of Ireland under-17 team in 2004–2005, featuring in the qualifying rounds for the UEFA European Under-17 Championship. He made a notable contribution in a 2–1 victory over Northern Ireland on 26 March 2005, scoring the second goal in the 57th minute during a counterattack to secure the win in the first qualifying round.[8][48] Ireland advanced to the elite round but did not qualify for the finals, with Gleeson making five appearances and scoring one goal across the U17 campaign. Gleeson's development continued at under-19 level in 2006–2007, where he represented Ireland in friendlies and UEFA European Under-19 Championship qualifiers, accumulating ten caps without scoring. One such appearance came in a match against Turkey on 21 May 2006, during which his involvement in midfield play was highlighted in reports of Ireland's efforts to progress in the competition.[49] By 2007, Gleeson had progressed to the under-21 team, making his debut in a 2–2 friendly draw against Germany on 21 August in Fürth, where he scored both goals for Ireland—including a leveling strike after intercepting a pass in the 48th minute and a 63rd-minute tap-in to give his side the lead.[50] He went on to feature prominently in UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifiers, accumulating 11 appearances in that competition alone between 2007 and 2010, for a total of 16 U21 caps and two goals. Overall, his youth international performances paved the way for an early senior call-up to the Republic of Ireland squad in May 2007 during a tour of the United States.[51]

Senior international career

Gleeson earned his first senior cap for the Republic of Ireland on 23 May 2007, coming on as a substitute in a 1–1 friendly draw against Ecuador in the United States, where he played the final 11 minutes without scoring. Three days later, on 26 May 2007, he made his second appearance as a substitute in another 1–1 friendly against Bolivia, featuring for 13 minutes and again failing to find the net. These brief cameos marked the start of his international career, following a progression through Ireland's youth teams.[52] After these initial outings under manager Steve Staunton, Gleeson endured a 10-year absence from the senior squad, attributed to inconsistent club form and stiff competition for midfield places in subsequent Ireland teams.[53] His recall came in March 2017 under Martin O'Neill, who named him in the squad for friendlies amid injuries to key players, giving the then-28-year-old a chance to revive his international prospects based on strong performances for MK Dons and Birmingham City. On 28 March 2017, Gleeson entered as a 63rd-minute substitute in a 0–1 friendly loss to Iceland at the Aviva Stadium, playing 27 minutes in a central midfield role alongside David Meyler but unable to influence the scoreline. Gleeson's fourth and most memorable cap arrived on 1 June 2017 in a 1–3 friendly defeat to Mexico at MetLife Stadium, where he substituted in the 76th minute and scored Ireland's consolation goal four minutes later, capitalizing on a loose clearance from a James McClean cross to fire past goalkeeper Alfredo Talavera.[54] This strike, his only senior international goal, ended a decade-long wait and highlighted his opportunistic finishing in limited opportunities.[55] In total, Gleeson accumulated four caps and one goal for Ireland, all as a substitute, with his last involvement in national team squads occurring during the 2017 summer friendlies before he was not selected for subsequent World Cup qualifiers.[56] Reflecting on his brief senior career, Gleeson expressed mixed emotions about the long gap, noting that the hiatus deepened his appreciation for the opportunity upon return, though he acknowledged the challenges of breaking into a competitive squad limited his overall impact.[53]

Career statistics

Club appearances and goals

The following table provides a comprehensive summary of Stephen Gleeson's appearances and goals in all club competitions, aggregated by club throughout his professional and non-league career up to November 2025. Data includes domestic leagues, cups, and other tournaments where applicable.[57][58][59][60]
ClubAppearancesGoals
Wolverhampton Wanderers30
Stockport County414
Hereford United40
Milton Keynes Dons17416
Birmingham City1256
Ipswich Town100
Aberdeen170
Solihull Moors223
Hemel Hempstead Town50
Hitchin Town452
Career Total44631

International appearances and goals

Gleeson made four appearances for the Republic of Ireland senior national team between 2007 and 2017, scoring once. His international debut came as a substitute during a tour of South America at age 18, and he returned to the squad nearly a decade later following impressive club form at Milton Keynes Dons. All his senior caps were in friendlies, with his sole goal arriving as a late consolation in a 3–1 defeat to Mexico.[61] The following table details Gleeson's senior international appearances:
DateOpponentResultCompetitionMinutes playedGoals
23 May 2007Ecuador1–1Friendly11'0
26 May 2007Bolivia2–1 (aet)Friendly13'0
28 March 2017Iceland4–1 (aet)Friendly27'0
1 June 2017Mexico1–3Friendly17'1 (76th minute, consolation goal following a defensive error by Oswaldo Alanís on a James McClean cross)
Gleeson represented the Republic of Ireland at youth international levels from U17 to U21, accumulating appearances primarily in qualifiers and friendlies with no further senior call-ups after 2017. His youth career highlighted early promise, though totals reflect limited starting roles in competitive fixtures.
Age GroupCapsGoals
U1710
U1920
U21162

Honours

Club honours

Stockport County
Football League Two play-offs: 2008[15] Milton Keynes Dons
League One play-offs: 2010–11, 2011–12[62][63] Aberdeen
Scottish League Cup runners-up: 2018–19[64]

Individual

PFA League One Team of the Year: 2011–12[65]

International honours

None

References

  1. Stephen Gleeson - Player profile | Transfermarkt
  2. Stephen Gleeson - Hitchin Town FC
  3. Family affair for Gleeson as he seeks to follow Whelan
  4. Stephen Gleeson: Who is he, what club does he play for? | Dublin Live
  5. Stephen Gleeson - Age, Family, Bio | Famous Birthdays
  6. Stephen Gleeson Feature - Aberdeen FC
  7. Ireland international becomes second Dubliner to sign for Aberdeen ...
  8. Stephen Gleeson | Stats | History | Career Details - extratime.com
  9. Ireland overcome Northern neighbours | UEFA Under-17 2005
  10. Wolverhampton Wanderers | Gleeson signs Wolves pro contract
  11. Academy graduates hit 50 | Express & Star
  12. Stephen Gleeson - Stats and titles won - 25/26 - Football Database
  13. Stephen GLEESON - Wolverhampton Wanderers FC
  14. Stephen Gleeson: Leaving Wolves best thing that happened to me
  15. https://www.soccerbase.com/players/player.sd?player_id=45301&season_id=132
  16. BBC SPORT | Football | League Two | Wycombe 1-1 Stockport
  17. Gleeson gives County a fillip | League Two - The Guardian
  18. BBC SPORT | Football | Stockport | Hatters bring in Gleeson on loan
  19. BBC SPORT | Football | My Club | Hereford bring in Gleeson on loan
  20. Gleeson returns to Stockport | Football News - Sky Sports
  21. Stephen Gleeson happy to be in second tier with Birmingham
  22. Stephen Gleeson signs new MK Dons contract - BBC Sport
  23. Stephen Gleeson - Player profile - Transfermarkt
  24. Stephen Gleeson - Detailed stats - Transfermarkt
  25. MK Dons 3-0 Doncaster - BBC Sport
  26. Arsenal striker Robin van Persie named PFA Player of the Year - BBC
  27. Gleeson still holds MK Dons close to his heart - Milton Keynes Citizen
  28. Stephen Gleeson: Birmingham City sign MK Dons midfielder - BBC
  29. Birmingham City | Appearances | Stephen Gleeson | 2017-2018
  30. Preview: Sheffield United v Blues | Birmingham City Football Club
  31. Birmingham Manager History | Past & Present | Soccer Base
  32. Stephen Gleeson joins Ipswich Town | Birmingham City Football Club
  33. stephen gleeson joins town - Ipswich Town FC
  34. Ipswich sign Tottenham's Cameron Carter-Vickers & Birmingham's ...
  35. Stephen Gleeson - Detailed stats
  36. Stephen Gleeson lifts the lid on his Birmingham City departure and ...
  37. Aberdeen set to sign Ireland international Stephen Gleeson on free ...
  38. Stephen Gleeson agrees to join The Dons - Aberdeen FC
  39. Stephen Gleeson eyes Europe after joining from Ipswich Town - BBC
  40. Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes facing Europa League selection ...
  41. Stephen Gleeson to be handed Aberdeen lifeline following recent ...
  42. Aberdeen confirm midfielder Stephen Gleeson's departure
  43. Former Ireland international leaves Aberdeen - The 42
  44. Ireland international Gleeson signs for Solihull Moors after 'a rough ...
  45. Stephen Gleeson - stats, career and market value - FotMob
  46. Ipswich Town: Stephen Gleeson named player-coach at Hitchin Town
  47. WEEKLY BULLETIN - 1ST NOVEMBER - Hitchin Town FC
  48. Stephen Gleeson - worldfootball.net
  49. U-19s fail in Euro quest - RTE
  50. Gleeson doubles as Irish rookies rattle German cage
  51. Givens delighted with Gleeson display - RTE
  52. Stephen Gleeson refects on a decade between international caps
  53. International friendly: Mexico 3-1 Republic of Ireland - BBC Sport
  54. Gleeson happy to end decade in the wilderness with a goal - The 42
  55. Stephen Gleeson - National team | Transfermarkt
  56. Stephen Gleeson - Career stats | Transfermarkt
  57. Stephen Gleeson | Football Stats | No Club | Age 37 - Soccerbase
  58. Stephen Gleeson Stats, Goals, Records, Assists, Cups and more
  59. Stephen Gleeson - National team | Transfermarkt
  60. Mexico 3-1 Rep Ireland (Jun 1, 2017) Final Score - ESPN
  61. Ireland U21 » History: Record Players - worldfootball.net
  62. Stephen Gleeson » Internationals » Friendlies - worldfootball.net
  63. Ireland [U17] » AppearancesU17 EURO Qualifiers 2004/2005
  64. PFA decided against dropping Ched Evans from League One team ...
  65. Stephen Gleeson ban lifted for MK Dons play-off - BBC Sport
  66. MK Dons 0 Huddersfield Town 2: Our match report from the 2012 ...
  67. Scottish League Cup final: Celtic 1-0 Aberdeen - BBC Sport - BBC
  68. Ineffective Ireland outclassed by Mexico in New Jersey - RTE
  69. 'It's a bit surreal to be honest' - Gleeson delighted with first Ireland ...
  70. Statistics: Under 21 [Powered by tplSoccerStats] - Soccer Scene
  71. BBC SPORT | Internationals | Rep of Ire U21 0-3 England U21
  72. Promising campaign ends with win | UEFA Under-17 2005 | UEFA.com
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