Abbey George Peterson

1999-00 to 2003-04 Defender

FL      League 79(21)1 Cups 12(5)0

Debut 14 August 1999 Sub Darlington (Away)

In Nigeria George initially played for his local side, Port Harcourt, but he signed for Sharks FC and then moved to Macclesfield for a fee of £10,000 having made some impressive pre-season trial appearances.  An attacking right-back, he could pass the ball long and accurately and used his natural individual style and flair to good effect, but the number of his appearances were limited due to strong competition for the right-back position and through injury.  During his time at Macclesfield, George made 10 international appearances for Nigeria (a Macclesfield FC club record as a Football League club) including being ever present in the African Cup of Nations finals in the 2003-4 season where he won a third place medal. Also gained a winners' medal in the Cheshire Senior Cup in 2000.

George left Macclesfield for Port Vale in the summer of 2004 and has since played for Crewe Alexandra and in 2010-11 for Akritas Chlorakas in Cyprus. Having retired from playing football George became a personal fitness trainer.

Born: Port Harcourt, Nigeria, 20 October 1978.

Abbey Paul

1994-95

Conf     Cups 1(0)0

Debut 5 April 1995 Stoke City (Home) Staffordshire Senior Cup Semi-final

Only made a single appearance for the Silkmen.

Ackerley

1911-12 Inside-right

ML     Cups 1 App  0 Goals

Debut 1 January 1912 Buxton (Away) Healey Cup R1 replay

There is no information recorded about this player who was brought in for the Healey Cup match replay when Macclesfield had to play a League match on the same day.

Ackers George EJ

1908-09  Centre-Forward

ML     League 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 31 October 1908 Newton Heath (Away)

Previously with Macclesfield Wednesday, it was reported that he had been playing well in the Macclesfield Reserve team when he made his senior debut in place of Tom Case at centre-forward, although he played at inside-left for the reserves. Made a second appearance in the penultimate match of the season when Lawton was ill.

George died at the age of 55 on 16 July 1942.

Ackley

1910-11 Goalkeeper

ML     League 1 App 0 Goals     Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 1 October 1910 St Helens Town (Away) FA Cup Q2

Signed from New Mills in August 1910, he was Macclesfield's reserve team goalkeeper for the 1910-11 season deputising for J Allen in two early season matches.

Adams Daniel Benjamin

'Danny'

2000-01 to 2003-04 Defender

FL      League 146(2)1 Cups 20(1)1

Debut 5 September 2000 Sub Bolton W (Home) Worthington Cup R1 L2

Started his career as a junior at Bury signing for Congleton Town (88 appearances, six goals). He moved to Altrincham in July 1997 where he established himself as a regular in the starting line-up making 161 appearances and swept the board with the Player Awards for the 1999-2000 season

Danny left his employment as a postman and Altrincham to sign for Macclesfield for fee of £25,000 in the summer of 2000. He made the left-back position his own, although he performed equally well at left wing-back and quickly became a fans' favourite for his consistent performances, forceful play and no nonsense tackling, winning the Player of the Year award in 2001-02. 

After leaving Macclesfield he played for Stockport County (2004-05, 43 appearances, one goal), Huddersfield Town (2005-07, 77 appearances), Morecambe (2007-10, 132 appearances, two goals), Stalybridge Celtic (2010, seven appearances), Witton Albion (2010-11, 11 appearances) and Nantwich Town (six appearances). 

Danny then retired as a professional footballer.

Born: Manchester, 3 January 1976.

Adams Eddie

1962-63 Forward

CL      Cups 1 Apps 3 Goals

Debut 10 September 1962 Darwen (Home) Inter-League Cup R1 replay

Eddie was a member of the reserve side who scored a hat-trick on his debut in the 6-0 cup victory which  was his only senior appearance.

Adams James Arthur 'Jimmy'

1960-61 to 1963-64 Left-back

CL       League 46 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 12 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 4 February 1961 Crewe Alexandra Reserves (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup R1

As a youngster Jimmy joined Wolverhampton Wanderers but wanting to be nearer home signed as an amateur for Port Vale (summer 1956) and after two seasons, became a part-time professional. Originally a wing-half, Port Vale converted him into a full-back and featured regularly in their reserve side. He moved to Crewe Alexandra in the summer of 1960 but did not feature in their senior side.

Signing for Macclesfield in February 1961 he immediately became an integral part of the side and was rarely out of the starting line-up. On his retirement from football in October 1963 due to a re-occurrence of an old knee injury, the manager described him as a great club man and a true sportsman both on and off the pitch.

During his time at Macclesfield he was employed as a draughtsman at the Royal Ordnance Factory at Radway Green.

Born 2 August 1937, died in Stoke-on-Trent 30 December 2005 at the age of 68.

Adams Joseph

1913-14 Forward

LC      League 12 Apps 4 Goals     Cups 2 Apps 1 Goal

Debut 6 September 1913 Crewe Alexandra Reserves (Home)

Joined Macclesfield in the summer of 1913 from Hindley Central having previously played for Goldenhill Wanderers and was ever-present for the first 14 matches of the season after which he did not appear again, and it is assumed that he left the club early in December 1913.  His appearances were split between Inside-right and Inside-left and he scored two goals on his debut in the 2-1 win. He also scored the opening goal in the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup in the 2-0 home win against Hurst.

Believed to be a brother of Percy Adams (see below) and one of the three brothers who all lost their lives in the First World War. At the beginning of the war joined the Cambridge's Own (Middlesex Regiment): Unit: 17th (Service) Battalion (1st Football) losing his life at the age of 23 on 22 January 1915 only ten weeks after leaving the UK.

1920-21 and 1921-22 Inside-left

CL       League 35 Apps 19 Goals     Cups 8 Apps 3 Goals

Debut 4 October 1920 Sandbach Ramblers (Home)

Percy first enjoyed success in his football career at the age of 14 when playing for Northwood Victoria gaining a Fenton League Championship medal and a League Cup winners' medal. He then played for Northwood Mission in the North Staffordshire Church League where he gained a winners' medal in the Church League Cup.

At 16 he signed for Goldenhill Wanderers in the North Staffordshire and District League winning a further four medals including two in the Sentinel Cup competition which was a highly rated competition for under 21 players. He also spent time at South Shields, West Ham United and Stoke.

In World War One in August 1914 he joined the 3rd North Staffords and was posted to France in 1915 returning to England in 1918.  Back in England he played in a cup- tie for his Regiment scoring 11 goals.  He completed his war service as a corporal on the gym staff.   During the war three of his brothers were killed, one of whom had featured for Macclesfield.

In the 1919-20 season he was with the South Wales side Ebbw Vale who competed in the Southern League 

He signed for Macclesfield for the 1920-21 season. Small in stature he was quick and agile, kept the ball moving at a rare pace and was good in the air.  Percy was soon scoring goals for Macclesfield and in the 1920-21 season scored the goal in the 1-1 draw in the second round of the Cheshire Senior Cup and was again on the score sheet in the successful 3-0 replay.  Unfortunately he could not find the net in front of 10,000 spectators in the semi-final against Congleton.  He commenced the 1921-22 season as the established inside-left, but as the season wore on other players were preferred and he found himself in the reserves from time to time.

On leaving Macclesfield in the summer of 1922 he signed for Stafford Rangers.

Adams Percy

1937-38 Forward

CL      League 2 Apps 1 Goal

Debut 28 August 1937 Buxton (Home)

Had been on the books of Longton Hall and Port Vale before a month-long trial with Macclesfield. He played in two early season matches scoring on his debut in the 2-3 defeat but was released at the end of the trial.

Born: 12 July 1914, Stoke-on-Trent. Died: 1984.

1993-94 Midfielder

Conf      League 24(4)1 Cups 14(4)0

Debut 4 September 1993 Dagenham & Redbridge (Home)

Steve first played for Rotherham United moving to Worksop Town before signing for Scarborough in September 1987 (56 appearances, six goals) and Doncaster for a fee of £3.5K in October 1989 (36 appearances, two goals).  He then spent time at Boston United (61 appearances, three goals), Stafford Rangers (seven appearances), Kettering Town (13 appearances), Witton Albion (October 1992 to May 1993, 38 appearances) and Gateshead (two appearances).

During his sole season at the Moss Rose, Steve appeared fairly regularly although competition for places was fierce with Phil Power, Chris Sharratt and Darren Lyons all vying for selection. His one goal came in the 1-0 home win against arch-rivals Altrincham.  Gained a winners' medal in the Conference League Cup. Said to be the comedian of the team off the pitch.

On leaving the Silkmen, Steve played for Boston United (43 appearances, two goals), Denaby United, Matlock Town and Belper Town before becoming a member of the Sheffield Wednesday Community Programme where he remained for nine years.  He then formed Tricky Wingers running football sessions, after school coaching, holiday courses and birthday parties.

Named his daughter 'Wednesday Joy'.

Born 7 September 1959, died on 3 March 2017 in Sheffield aged 57.

Adams T

1919-20 Goalkeeper

CL      League 4 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 30 August 1919 Crichton's Athletic (Home)

From Hanley, he only featured in the first five matches of the season, his place then being taken by J Butler.

2015-16 Forward

NC     League 1(2)0

Debut 26 September 2015 Sub Aldershot Town (Away)

Started his career at Manchester City before moving to Birmingham City's Academy from 2011 to 2013 after which he returned to Manchester at the age of 18 for a trial with Manchester United but spent the final months of the 2013-14 season playing for St Johnstone's under 20 side. Signed for Crystal Palace in October 2014 where he played in their under 18 and under 21 sides.

At the age of 20 Fisayo signed non-contract forms for the Silkmen towards the end of September 2015 but was released in November 2015.

Joined AFC Fylde Development squad in January 2016 and in August 2016 signed for Dutch side NAC Breda who gained promotion to the top flight in the 2016-17 season. Out on loan at FC Oss (second tier) for the 2017-18 season and on his return to his parent club was released in the summer of 2018, after which he was without a club until February 2019 when he joined Romanian club FC Universities Craiova 1948, leaving them in April 2019. Returning to the UK at some stage signed for Warrington Town in February 2020. Signed for Curzon Ashton at the beginning of October 2020 but then signed for Stafford Rangers on 10 October followed by a move to Altricham only days later on 14 October 2020. Played seven games for Ashton United at the beginning of the 2021-22 season leaving at the beginning of October 2021.

Sentenced to a 12-month community order after being found guilty of harassment without violence at Warrington Magistrates Court on January 3 2023. He was ordered to carry out 100 hours of unpaid work, pay his victim £200 compensation, pay £640 court costs, and was given a 12-month restraining order.

Brother of Tosin Adarabioyo who is also a footballer.

Born: 1 February 1995.

2014-15 Forward

NC       Cups 1(0)2

Debut 27 January 2015 FC Hyde (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup R1

A member of Charlton Athletic Under 18 squad until December 2013 when he moved to the Millwall Under 18 squad.  In July 2014 he signed for Stoke City as member of their Under 21 squad.

Signed on loan for Macclesfield Town to the end of the season as part of the initiative between Stoke City and Macclesfield Town. Immediately went into the history books of the Silkmen when he scored two goals on his debut in the Cheshire Senior Cup (his one and only match for the Silkmen) including the winning goal in extra time. Did not remain at the club for the full term of his loan returning to Stoke City early in February 2015.

Tomi then embarked on quite a journey playing for several clubs. On the books of Chelmsford from September to November 2015 and Dover Athletic from November 2015 to January 2016 but does not appear to have made any appearances for either of these clubs, however, whilst at Dover spent a month on loan at Leatherhead from December 2015 to January 2016.  Signed for Welling United in February 2016 making his debut on 20 February 2016 against Wrexham. He made yet another move in April 2016 when he returned to Leatherhead.  After an unsuccessful trial at Chester in December 2016 he signed for Altrincham where he remained from 12 January 2017 to 2 February 2017. Joined FC United in March 2017, but having made nine appearances and scoring one goal, because of difficulty in commuting from his base in London he left the club in the summer 2017. Joined St Albans on 12 September 2017 before surprisingly signing for Hartlepool United on 2 October 2017, but having only signed a short term deal with Hartlepool who were under a transfer embargo when his deal came to an end, signed for Whitehawk at the end of March 2018. A further move came in August 2018 when he signed for Dagenham & Redbridge on a one-year deal from where he was released in May 2019. After his release he was without a club until he signed for Ebbsfleet United in October 2019 from where he was released in the summer of 2020. Joined Scottish Lowland League side East Kilbride in December 2020 moving to Barnet under manager Tim Flowers in February 2021 on a short term contract to the end of the 2020-21 season and was subsequently released at the end of his contract. Returned to Scotland in the summer of 2021 signing a one-year deal with Scottish Championship side Ayr United where he won a number of the Club's awards for the 2021-22 season. However, he rejected the offer of a new deal at Ayr United in the summer of 2022 signing a two-year deal with Swindon Town. In the summer of 2023 joined Partick Thistle on a season-long loan. In March 2024 returned to Swindon Town to undergo medical rehabilitation following a season-ending injury but was released in the summer of 2024.

Born: 17 February 1996.

Ainsbury Tommy

1932-33 Outside-left

CL     League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 4 March 1933 Nantwich (Away)

Tommy had previously been on the books at Bristol City.  Billy Scott failed to arrive for the match at Nantwich resulting in positional changes with Tommy, who was then playing for Parkside in the Macclesfield District League, being drafted in at outside-left for this one match.

2016-17 midfielder

NC     Cups 1(0)0

Debut 1 November 2016 Winsford United (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup Preliminary Round

Chorley-born Ainscough was released by Blackburn at the age of 18 after which he spent time in the United States where he attended Runshaw College and played for New York Buffalos and Eckerd Tritons (2013-15). Also spent time playing in Canada.

One of 11 players signed on non-contract terms for Macclesfield Town at the end of October 2016 prior to the Cheshire Senior Cup Preliminary Round in which he made his sole appearance for the club. Released November 2016.

Signed for Finnish club Pepo Lappeenranta until December 2017 after which he signed for Division 2 side Brunos Magpies in Gibraltar but left them in July 2018. He then returned to England playing for a short time for Silsden then Padiham and at the beginning of the 2019-20 season, Charnock Richard.

Returned to the United States of America in 2020 to study for a Masters Degree in Human Resources, whilst also acting as Graduate Assistant Coach for the Men's Soccer team at Rollins College in Florida.

Ainsworth JJ

1911-12 Centre-forward

LC     League 2 Apps 1 Goal

Debut 9 September 1911 Stalybridge Celtic (Home)

Hailing from Bollington, played for Bollington St. John's, he was signed by Oldham Athletic in February 1911 but it would seem that the move did not work out as he featured for Macclesfield in a 1911-12 pre-season friendly match going on to make two early season appearances, scoring on his debut in the 1-2 home defeat.

Alcock

1924-25 and 1925-26 Inside-left

CL      League 1 App 0 Goals     Cups 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 3 January 1925 Hurst (Home)

A member of the Macclesfield reserve team who made one senior league appearance in 1925 and appeared twice in Cheshire Challenge Cup in 1926 when he gained a runners-up medal.

Alcock E

1936-37, 1937-38 and 1939-40 Defender 

CL      League 12 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 12 September 1936 Witton Albion (Home)

An amateur centre-half, who had played for Leek Alexandra in the 1935-36 season. As a member of the reserve team his appearances at senior level came when he was standing in for players who were unavailable, including  deputising for Andy Lee when he incurred a serious knee injury late in the 1937-38 season.  Moved back to Congleton Town in the summer of 1938 although he played for Macclesfield's 1939-40 war-time team.

1931-32 Right-half

CL      League 25 Apps 1 Goal    Cups 6 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 29 August 1931 Hyde United (Away)

Commenced his career at Gainsborough Trinity after which he played for Wath Athletic. At some stage he was a South Yorkshire pit boy.  Sidney signed as a professional for Notts County at the beginning of the 1929-30 season playing for the reserve team and whilst there  gained a runners-up medal in the Notts Senior Cup competition.

Sidney moved to Macclesfield in the summer of 1931 at the age of 20, featuring regularly until late February 1932 when his place was taken by George Stockton who had been playing at left-half. He was a consistent and hard working player whose sole goal came in his second match when the Silkmen won 5-2 against Northwich Victoria at the Moss Rose.

Aldersay Kenneth

1946-47 Outside-right

CL     League 15 Apps 6 Goals    Cups 3 Apps 1 Goal

Debut 1 January 1947 Witton Albion (Home)

Before joining Macclesfield played for Witton Albion, Crewe Alexandra and Foden’s Motor Works at Sandbach. Featured in the majority of matches in the second half of the 1946-47 season making a good start when he scored on his debut in the 3-2 victory.

2002-03

FL     League 0(1)0

Debut 13 August 2002 Sub Leyton Orient (Away)

Son of former Liverpool star John Aldridge, Paul signed for Macclesfield Town in the summer of 2002 from Tranmere Rovers where he a spell on loan at Vauxhall Motors (December 2001 to February 2002), but had a horrific season through injury.  On his debut he broke a metatarsal bone in his left foot and having recovered broke the same bone again during a reserve match.  After surgery he returned to action in the Reserves leaving the club at the end of the 2002-03 season.

Shortly after, Paul joined Derry City in Ireland. Returned to England in March 2004 to play for Runcorn FC Halton where he remained to the end of the 2003-04 season.

Since retiring from playing Paul has been a glazer with Ware & Ware Bros (April 2004 to March 2006) and has worked for Ashtead Plant Hire Co Ltd as a Rental Manager (April 2006 to March 2015) and a Service Manager (April 2015 to date).

On a volunteer basis he is a coach and fundraiser for Quarry Juniors FC.

Born: Liverpool, 2 December 1981.

Alexander Jimmy

1946-47 and 1947-48 Outside-left

CL     League 10 Apps  3 Goals  

Debut 12 April 1947 Rhyl (Away)

Moved to the Moss Rose from Bolton Wanderers in April 1947 when he made eight consecutive appearances in the final matches of the season.  In the 1947-48 season he could not force his way into the team and his request to be placed on the transfer list was granted.  Eventually he was released in December 1947 when he signed on a month’s trial for Airdrieonians

2007-08 to 2009-10 Manager

Matches 99, Won 27, Drawn 25, Lost 47, %Win 27.27

In his playing days Keith was linked with  numerous non-league and league clubs, however, he was registered initially in his home town with Notts County in 1974 but soon moved into the non-league scene as follows: Wisbech Town (1975), Arnold Town (1975-76), Worksop Town (1976-77), Clifton (1977), Attenborough (1977), Ilkeston Town (1977-78), Kimberley Town (1978), Alfreton Town (1978-79), Stamford (1979-80), Boston United (1980-81), KIng's Lynn (1981), Stamford (1981-82), Corby (1982), Spalding (1982-83), Boston Town (1983), Grantham Town (1983), King's Lynn (1983-84), Kettering Town (1984-86), Wisbech Town (loan 1986), and Barnet (1986-88).

Keith then moved into the Football League when he signed for Grimsby Town for a fee of £11,500 remaining there from 1988 to 1990. He moved to Stockport County in 1990 but soon signed for Lincoln City where he combined his playing duties with that of Youth team coach and in 1993 was appointed manager becoming the first black Football League manager. At the end of the 1993-94 season he lost the managerial appointment and continued his playing career at Mansfield Town, spending time on loan at Cliftonville. Unfortunately on his return to Mansfield he broke a leg in January 1996 which in effect ended his playing career.

At international level Keith represented Saint Lucia on three occasions.

Whilst registered as a player at Ilkeston he never made an appearance concentrating on his managerial role remaining there from 1996 to 2000. He then spent a year as manager at Northwich Victoria before returning to Lincoln City for the 2001-02 season where he was appointed Director of Coaching responsible for ensuring the continuity of coaching from the Centre of Excellence through youth and to the first team, combing these duties as assistant manager to manager Alan Buckley. With the club in financial difficulties, Buckley was relieved of his duties with Keith appointed as manager at the start of the 2002-03 season. Over the next four seasons he led the team to four consecutive play-off defeats. Following the last of these defeats at the end of the 2005-06 season, Keith left Lincoln by mutual consent moving to Peterborough for the 2006-07 season. He was appointed Director of Football at Bury in May 2007 but lost his job when manager Chris Casper was dismissed in January 2008.

Keith was appointed manager at Macclesfield Town at the end of February 2008 following the dismissal of Ian Brightwell. The team found themselves in 22nd position, two points above the relegation zone and having played more matches than both teams below them.  Under Keith's guidance the team completed the season in 19th position with 50 points in Coca-Cola League 2. The 2008-09 season the team finished in 20th position but reached the third round of the FA Cup losing narrowly 1-0 to Everton at the Moss Rose.

The 2009-10 season saw the Silkmen just about keeping their heads above water near the foot of the table and were eliminated in the first round of all three cup competitions. Having overseen his 99th match for Macclesfield Town at Notts County on 2 March 2010, Keith returned from the game feeling unwell, collapsed and was taken to Lincoln Hospital where he died shortly after at the age of 53. Keith had suffered a brain aneurysm in 2003 when manager of Lincoln City, and had been taken to hospital in March 2009 feeling unwell but was later given a clean bill of health. Tributes came from around the world demonstrating the high esteem in which he was held.  On the day of his death the England national team and the England under-21s wore black armbands in their respective matches.  Before the match at the Moss Rose on 13th March tributes were paid, doves released and wreaths laid in the centre circle. Keith's funeral was held at a packed Lincoln Cathedral on 15th March 2010.

Keith had qualified as the first black referee and supported many charities, including the Sacred Sports Foundation in Saint Lucia which he founded to increase sporting opportunities for Saint Lucian children.

Born: 14 November 1956, Dided: 3 March 2010.

(For photographs remembering Keith please go to Photo Archives.)

2011-12 Defender

FL      League 1(0)0

Debut 6 April 2012 Shrewsbury Town (Home)

Zac was a member of Southport's youth team, and having attracted the attention of Blackburn Rovers with his performances, after a trial, signed for them in August 2010 for an undisclosed fee. Playing regularly for Rovers Reserve side, he had also been on loan at Morecambe, where he made his Football League debut against the Silkmen, and made a handful of appearances back at Southport, also on loan. 

He joined the Silkmen on loan in March 2012 at a time when the Silkmen had several players out of contention through injury, but only made one appearance when he replaced Jon Bateson at left-back.

Having been released by Blackburn Rovers in 2012, Zac then played for Warrington Town (September 2012) and Ashton Town (November 2012). He was later on the books of Skelmersdale United (March 2013), Northwich Victoria (October 2013 to June 2014), Windmill Kestrels in Liverpool (2016) and Runcorn Linnets (October 2016).

From his postings on social media it would appear that he had retired from playing semi-professional football but continued to play Sunday League football turning out for Melling Victoria, a team of Kirkby lads. However, in December 2020 it was announced that he had signed for City of Liverpool FC following a change of mind about stepping down from semi-professional football. Continued to play for City of LIverpool FC for the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons although his start in 2022 was delayed having suffered a fractured tibia. Moved to Quarry Green for the 2022-23 season, where he made 18 appearances scoring nine goals, helping them to win the Liverpool Buisiness Houses Football League - Championship securing promotion to the Premier division and continued his registration with the club for the 2023-24 season.

Born: 17 August 1991

1993-94 Forward

Conf    League 34(0)14 Cups 18(2)12

Debut 21 August 1993 Bath City (Away)

Carl was signed from Witton Albion for a fee of £1700 (80 appearances, 22 goals) but he made his Football League debut at the age of 16 for Rochdale (four appearances) and went on to play for Burnley, Stockport County with a loan spell at Morecambe. Whilst at Witton he collected a FA Trophy runners-up medal.

A keen eye for goal ensured that Carl completed the 1993-94 season as top scorer with 26 goals, the highest number of goals in a season since Steve Burr’s 27 in the 1988-89 season, and gained a Conference League Cup winners' medal.

With no additional money on the table, after just one season, Carl moved to Kettering Town for a fee of £25,000

(98 appearances, 54 goals) and in April 1996 moved to Rushden & Diamonds for a fee of £85,000 (52 appearances, 22 goals) with Macclesfield receiving a further £12,500. Whilst at Rushden & Diamonds he spent time on loan at Dover Athletic (five appearances, seven goals).

Since then Carl played for several clubs  -  Stevenage Borough (1998-2000, 43 appearances, 46 goals), Doncaster Rovers (2000-2001, 23 appearances, one goal) , on loan at Kettering Town (2001, two appearances, three goals), Yeovil Town (2001-2002, 62 appearances, 14 goals), Nuneaton Borough (2002-2003, 10 appearances, two goals), Gainsborough Trinity (2003-2004) but left just five months into a two-year deal, Leigh RMI (2004, one appearance),  Woodley Sports, Nuneaton Borough on loan (10 appearances, two goals) completing his career at New Mills (2006-2007).

Carl made two appearances for the English National Game side and has passed his UEFA B coaching licence.

Born: 11 February 1972.

1993-94

Conf    League 2(0)0

Debut 21 August 1993 Bath City (Away)

Craig is the son of the well-known manager, Sam. His career commenced at Preston North End in 1993 with his Silkmen debut coming in Sammy McIlroy’s first match in change when Bath City enjoyed a 5-1 victory.  His second appearance came at Runcorn in another defeat, on this occasion 2-1.

On leaving Macclesfield in the summer of 1994 he went on to play for several clubs unfortunately unable to establish himself at any of them.  The clubs were as follows - Guangdong Hongyaun (China), but received a half-year ban for indiscipline resulting in him returning to England when he signed for Northwich Victoria.  On the books of Blackpool from 1994-97 making one senior league appearance, before moving to Chorley at the beginning of the 1997-98 season but in quick succession he then briefly featured for Chesterfield, Peterborough United and Welling United. Signed for Mansfield Town in 1998 where he remained until 2000 making 10 senior league appearances before moving to Boston United.

He then retired from football at the age of 25 to become a football agent although he was joint manager of West Lancashire Football League club Turton from December 2007, leaving in 2009.

In 2009 obtained a Commercial Pilots Licence with Multi Engine Instrument Rating at Leeds Bradford Airport. Since January 2015 has been director of SME Business Finance Ltd, a Business Finance & Vehicle Leasing company.

Born: 9 June 1975.

1994-95

Conf    League 2(1)0

Debut 31 December 1994 Sub Stafford Rangers (Home)

Commenced his career at Stockport County before signing for Tranmere Rovers.

Gavin spent a short time on loan at the Moss Rose from Tranmere Rovers in late December 1994 and early January 1995.

On leaving Tranmere he moved to his native Wales playing for Aberystwyth from 1996 to 1999 where he was top-scorer in 1996-97 and 1997-98 with 26 and 27 goals. Signed for Bangor City in the summer of 1999, staying with them for one season before returning to Aberystwyth Town in 2000, appearing regularly and remaining there until the 2003-04 season when he signed for Carmarthen Town and shortly after Barry Town. Returned to Aberystwyth Town again for the 2004-05 season at the end of which he had made 238 appearances and scored 113 goals during his three stints at the club. Signed for Caernarfon Town in the summer of 2005 but left them in October 2005 to take up the position of player/assistant manager at Cymru Alliance Penrhyncoch in October 2005 and at an unknown date became player/manager until December 2008 when he resigned. Whilst he was still at Penrhyncoch he was also appointed manager of the Welsh Universities in June 2008. He returned for the 2013-14 season as the first team coach at Penrhyncoch. Has been involved in coaching sessions for youngsters and in 2017 was involved in training camps and is the Student Opportunities Manager at the University of Aberystwyth. Was appointed assistant manager at Welsh Premier League side Aberystwyth Town in September 2018 combining this role with Head of Youth from July 2019.

Promoted to manager at Aberystwyth Town in the summer of 2020. In December 2020 Gavin offered his resignation as first team manager which was initially accepted, however, in January 2021 the club announced that he would remain in position until the resumption of Cymru Premier Fixtures. Over the period December 2020 to March 2021 the club had been working hard to stengthen its playing squad and management team. Given the extraordinary circumstances the club found themselves in with relation to the Covid-19 pandemic, with fixtures about to recommence in March 2021, they reassessed the situation and agreed that Gavin would remain in place as First Team Manager. However, at the end of the 2020-21 season resigned from his role as first team manager at Aberystwyth Town to pursue new management opportunities but remained as Head of Coaching and Youth and manager of the Ladies team (appointed June 2021). Appointed manager at Cymru Premier side Pontypridd United in January 2024. Unable to gain a Tier 1 licence for the 2024-25 season, Pontypridd United were demoted to the Cymru South League (Tier 2) for the 2024-25 season,  however,  Gavin agreed to continue as manager of the club  at the lower level.

Has appeared for Wales at Under-21 level.

In June 2021 was in the process of working towards his UEFA pro licence.

Born: 17 June 1976.

1909-10 to 1913-14 Goalkeeper

LC       League 47 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 4 Apps 0 Goals

ML     League 63 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 14 Apps 0 Goals  

Debut 20 November 1909 Hazel Grove (Home)

Initially was the Macclesfield reserve team goalkeeper deputising for the senior team goalkeeper, Burbidge, who became ill at the end of February 1910 when Allen was promoted to the senior side. He was virtually ever-present during the 1910-11 season when he won a Manchester League Championship medal and a winners' medal in the Cheshire Senior Cup competition. He also represented Cheshire County in the match against Lancashire in October 1910. During the 1911-12 season Macclesfield ran two teams, one in the Manchester League and one in the Lancashire Combination.  Allen remained the goalkeeper for the Manchester League team which when they had completed their fixtures fulfilled the end-of -season matches in the Lancashire League. In the 1912-13 season, having given sterling service he could consider himself unfortunate to be replaced by Baxter in the middle of December 1912 when he fell back to the reserves. However, with deteriorating results he was re-instated at the beginning of April 1913. He started the 1913-14 season as first choice goalkeeper but was replaced by Joseph Birds towards the end of December 1914. 

Became the licensee of the Feathers Inn on Brunswick Street.

Allman W

1888-89, 1890-91 to 1892-93 Forward

#TC     League 8 Apps 2 Goals     Cups 2 Apps 0 Goals

Debut - date unknown due to missing match information

A member of the Macclesfield reserve team called into the senior side deputising for established players, playing on either wing. The majority of his appearances came in the 1892-93 season.

Almond

1893-94 Full back

TC     League 1 App

Debut 30 September 1893

Hailed from Ramsbottom and was signed in the summer of 1893 taking part in pre-season matches and just a single League match.

1959-60 Inside-left/left-half

CL      League 31 Apps 8 Goals   Cups 9 Apps 4 Goals

Debut 22 August 1959 Buxton (Home)

Eric was a fluent ball-player equally at home as an inside-left or half-back, he was a clever footballer who signed for Liverpool in December 1951 (73 league appearances, 21 goals), making his debut in  March 1953, before moving to Barnsley in 1957 (9 appearances, one goal).

He dropped out of league football to join Macclesfield when he refused a transfer to Bournemouth. Almost ever present in his season at the Moss Rose, he scored almost a goal in every three appearances, including the first goal in the 2-1 win over Hyde United in the final of the Cheshire Senior Cup.

Signed for Hyde United (1960-61, 28 appearances in all competitions scoring seven goals) then made a single appearance for Mossley in the 1961-62 season. He was later manager of Ashton United Reserves.

Born 12 March 1931, died in July 1990 at the age of 59.

Anderson Ryan

2017-18

NL     Cups 0(1)0

Debut 7 November 2017, Sub 1874 Northwich (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup Preliminary Round

Joined the newly formed Macclesfield Town Under 21 Youth Development team at the start of the 2017-18 season. Featured from the substitutes' bench in the only Cheshire Senior Cup match of the season when members of the Development team fulfilled this fixture.

Anderton Joseph

1921-22 and 1922-23 Goalkeeper

CL      League 20 Apps 0 Goals     Cups 8 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 4 March 1922 Northwich Victoria (Away)

Previously on the books of Manchester United, Chorley and Horwich, Joseph was signed from Northwich Victoria. He was described as a clever custodian with a safe pair of hands. His turn came during William Osbaldeston's last season with the club and when the reserve 'keeper, Blackburn was injured,  Joseph then played from March to the end of the season. In the 1922-23 season he shared goalkeeping duties with John Lee, including a two and half month spell from the beginning of January 1923 which included the semi-final of the Cheshire Senior Cup. He held a total of 14 medals including a winners' medals for the West Lancashire Cup and the Lancashire Cup.

On leaving Macclesfield signed for Congleton Town in the summer of 1923.

2013-14 Defender

NC      League 46(0)5      Cups 7(0)1

Debut 10 August 2013 Nuneaton Town (Home)

Danny's youth career spanned Peterborough United, Leicester City and Holbeach United returning to Peterborough United in 2007.  He signed his first professional contract at Peterborough in 2008, where he remained for two seasons making two Championship appearances as well as having loan spells at Leigh Genesis (November-December 2008), Tamworth (five appearances in all competitions), Kidderminster Harriers (eight league appearances) and Cheltenham Town, signing permanently for Cheltenham in 2010 (total of 71 appearances and four goals).  Whilst there he spent time on loan at Mansfield Town (six appearances), Cambridge United (six appearances) and Gloucester City (eight appearances and one goal).

Having been released by Cheltenham, Danny signed for Macclesfield in the summer of 2013 quickly establishing himself as a valuable member of the team.  Danny was ever-present in all league and major cup matches during the 2013-14 season as a dependable left-back taking many free-kicks, two of his six goals coming from set pieces. He scored the winning goal from a free-kick at Grimsby at the end of December when Macclesfield triumphed 3-2 - this  goal was Macclesfield's 700th goal as members of the Conference. Made an appearance for the England C team against Latvia in August 2013 and was both the Supporters' and the Players' Player of the Year.

Moved to Fleetwood Town in the summer of 2014 for an undisclosed fee (18 appearances), Grimsby Town in the summer of 2016 (50 appearances) and Doncaster Rovers in the summer of 2017 (62 appearances and five goals). Danny returned to Fleetwood Town in June 2019 when he signed a three-year contract which was extended in the summer of 2022 by way of a two-year deal with an option for a further year. However, Danny left Fleetwood Town in the summer of 2023 signing for Cambridge United remaining with them for the 2024-25 season.

Born: 23 December 1990.

Andrews

1957-58 Forward

CL     League 7 Apps 2 Goals

Debut 29 March 1958 Stafford Rangers (Home)

Played in the closing matches of the season, scoring on his debut in the 2-2 draw and again against Stalybridge in the 3-2 victory.

Andrews Simon

1990-91 Midfielder

Conf   Cups 0(1)0

Debut 12 January 1991 Sub Gretna (Home) FA Trophy R 1

Simon was born in Macclesfield and joined Manchester United as a junior but was released by them in 1989. Brought in as cover at the Moss Rose, his one appearance came when he replaced John Imrie from the substitutes' bench in the 2-0 defeat by Gretna in the FA Trophy.

On leaving Macclesfield he played for other clubs but on retiring he studied for a career in finance and built up a successful career in wealth management.  Using this experienced coupled with his career in football he created The Players Programme providing guidance to up and coming footballers. The programme was first taken up by Sir Alex Ferguson at the United Academy before being rolled out to most clubs in the Premier League through the projects of AdAstra. More recently has been appointed director of business development in sport at wealth management company Tilney.

Angel

1925-26 Left-back

CL      League 3 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 10 October 1925 Eccles United (Away)

From Stockport County, this player was given a three match trial and whilst he made a satisfactory debut he was not signed by the club.

2012-13 Goalkeeper

NC       Cups 1(0)0

Debut 16 January 2013 Wigan Athletic (Home) FA Cup Round 4

In the youth set-up, firstly at Blackburn Rovers and then Port Vale, he signed his first professional contract at Vale in the summer of 2004 where he remained for six years making 118 senior appearances in all competitions, and was voted Port Vale Player of the Year in 2009. During his time at Vale he spent time on loan at Stafford Rangers and Harrogate Town. Joe moved to Lincoln City in the summer of 2010, featuring in over 60 matches and spent time on loan at Morecambe in the latter stages of the 2010-11 season. He was voted Lincoln's Player of the Season in 2011-12. He joined Shrewsbury Town in July 2012.

Joe was signed on an emergency seven day loan by Macclesfield Town on 25 January 2013 in time for the fourth round tie in the FA Cup against Wigan Athletic replacing current goalkeeper Lance Cronin who had fractured a thumb. Returned to Shrewsbury at the end of the loan.

Moved to Scunthorpe United in January 2015 and Chesterfield in the summer of 2017 from where he was released at the end of the 2018-19 season after which he signed for Chorley at the beginning of August 2019. It would appear that he left Chorley at the end of the 2019-20 season.

At international level, Joe represented England on six occasions for the Under 16 team.

Having gained a brickwork qualification at the University of Central Lancashire has worked in the building trade since January 2019, initially with Wilwright Electrical Contractors Ltd in Cannock (January 2019 to September 2020) and then J Masson Building & Civils in Lincolnshire since September 2020.

Born: 29 December 1986.

Archibald Theodore

Valentine 'Theo'

2019-20 Defender/Midfielder

FL     League 23(5)4     Cups 2(3)2

Debut 3 August 2019 Exeter City (Away)

Born in Glasgow, after playing schoolboy football for Parkvilla joined the Celtic Academy winning the Glasgow Cup with the Under 17 team in 2014-15 signing his first professional contract in 2015 making just one appearance in the Scottish Challenge Cup. He helped the Development Squad win the SPFL Development League title for the 2015-16 season and spent time on loan at Albion Rovers from January to May 2017 (14 league appearances). Moved south of the border on the expiry of his contract with Celtic signing for Brentford in July 2017 (two appearances) however, could not establish himself in the senior side but was successful in Brentford’s B team as second-leading scorer with 14 goals in the 2017-18 season. Went out on loan to Forest Green Rovers from July 2018 to January 2019 (14 league appearances, two goals) returning to Brentford’s B team contributing to the 2019 Middlesex Senior Cup Final victory in 2019.

Signed for Macclesfield Town on a free transfer in July 2019 on a one-year deal with an option for a further year. Went straight into the starting line-up where he became a force to be reckoned with in the first half of the season. Initially played at left wing-back , switching to right wing-back and later right midfield. Played with pace and was always willing to deliver goal bound shots from distance. Unfortunately he was injured in the home match against Mansfield Town on 16 November 2019 and did not return to the matchday squad until 11 January 2020 when he was an unused substitute not regaining a regular place in the starting line-up until the last four matches prior to the suspension of the league in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In May 2020 advised the club that he was leaving, the club responding by cancelling his contract.

Signed for Lincoln City in August 2020 moving to Leyton Orient in the summer of 2021 on a season-long loan. In the summer of 2022 signed a permanent contract with Leyton Orient remaining with the club for the 2023-24 season. Suffered an ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injury against Port Vale in February 2024.

At international level has represented Scotland at Under 16, Under 19 and Under 21.

Born: 5 March 1998.

Arden Craig

1993-94 Defender

Conf    Cups 0(1)0

Debut 15 November 1993 Sub Pelsall Villa (Away) Staffordshire Senior Cup R2

Came on from the substitutes’ bench in the 77th minute to replace defender Mike Cunningham in the 1-1 drawn when a weakened team was fielded. There is no other information recorded about this player.

2017-18 Defender

NL     Cups 1(0)0

Debut 7 November 2017, 1874 Northwich (Away) Cheshire Senior Cup Preliminary Round

In December 2009 played for Wilmslow Town in the Christmas Cup for the age group  U9-U11 and in 2010 was with Wilmslow Pumas Under 11s in the Timperley & District Junior League Division 2. In May 2015 played for Youth Kicks Junior Football Club in the Tameside Football League and in March 2017 was captain of the Wilmslow High School Under 16 team.

Joined the newly formed Macclesfield Town Under 21 Youth Development team for the start of the 2017-18 season. Played in the only Cheshire Senior Cup match of the season when the members of the Development team fulfilled the fixture.

Armitt, Caesar Charles Edward

'Charles'

1887-88 and 1892-93 Forward

TC     League 2 Apps 1 Goal

Debut unknown due to missing match information

Born in Bollington in the second quarter of 1866. In his book, John Earles refers to Armitt as a fast, skilful dribbler and clever forward. First played for Macclesfield FC during their pre-league days with his first appearances found in the 1887-88 season. In his second stint at the club, it would appear that he only made two appearances.

On leaving Macclesfield moved to Liverpool playing for Liverpool Police Athletic and then may have been on the books of Everton before playing for Bootle, Gorton Villa, Blackburn Rovers (1892, no senior appearances), Chester, Gorton Villa for a second time and Ardwick, who later changed their name to Manchester City (one appearance in May 1893), later playing for Hyde.

Died 1942.

Arnold George

1947-48, 1948-49 and 1958-59 Goalkeeper

CL     League 13 Apps  0 Goals    Cups 1 App 0 Goals 

Debut 6 October 1947 Chester Reserves (Home)

Before becoming a goalkeeper, George played at centre-forward for Trafford Park where he scored 121 league goals and 13 goals in cup competitions over an unreported period. At Macclesfield he was the reserve team goalkeeper who proved to be a capable second string 'keeper to Nat McKinstry. In the 1958-59 season he was drafted in for one match in March 1959 replacing Gordon Cuddeford who was playing for the reserves in the Cheshire Amateur Cup semi-final.

Arrowsmith Alf

1972-73 - Forward

NPL   League 20(0)3   Cups 11(1)4

Debut 23 August 1972 Stafford Rangers (Home)

Alf began his career with Tintwistle Villa  scoring 96 goals in the 1959-60 season, a club record which remains unbeaten today. He then moved to Ashton United where he was spotted by a Liverpool scout and signed for Liverpool in 1960 for a fee of £900 according to Ashton's web site although an unofficial related Liverpool web site notes the figure as £1,250. He made his debut the following year but he came to prominence during the 1963-64 season scoring 15 goals in 20 league games winning a First Division Championship medal. At Liverpool he made a total of 48 appearances scoring 20 goals. A serious injury in the 1964 FA Charity Shield match impacted on his career.

Alf left Liverpool in 1968, playing for Bury in the 1968-69 season (48 appearances, 11 goals) and Rochdale from 1970 to 1972 (44 appearances, 14 goals).

Signed for the Silkmen for the 1972-73 season, Alf scored his first goal in the 2-2 draw against Bradford Park Avenue at the Moss Rose in only his second match. His one season with Macclesfield was his last as a semi-professional player retiring in 1973. On leaving Macclesfield returned to Tameside where he continued to play amateur football.

Born: 11 December 1942, Died 12 May 2005 at the age of 62.

2017-18 and 2018-19 Midfielder

NC      League 3(11)1     Cups 3(0)1

FL       League 17(3)3      Cups 3(2)1    

Debut 8 August 2017 sub Hartlepool United (Home)

Born in Kumasi, Ghana Koby moved to England when he joined the youth system at Southern League club Woodford United.  At the age of 16 he moved to the football and education development programme run by Birmingham City's community department but was soon recruited into the club’s main development system. He played for Birmingham City’s under-18 team, and then the reserves before making his senior debut on 1 April 2013 against Wolverhampton Wanderers when he was a 78^th minute substitute replacing Mitch Hancox (see separate profile). Arthur went on to make 16 senior appearances and enjoyed loan spells at Lincoln City (2014)  and two loan spells at Cheltenham Town (2014 and 2016-17) making a total of 15 appearances and scored four goals.

Having left Birmingham City and having featured in all the Silkmen’s pre-season matches, signed for Macclesfield Town in the summer of 2017. Appeared regularly in the first half of the season usually introduced from the substitutes' bench, but even when he made the starting line-up he never remained on the pitch for the full 90 minutes and could not establish himself as a regular in the team. He scored the only goal in the 4-1 home league defeat against Maidstone United with his other goal coming in the 5-0 FA Cup win at Stourbridge. However, made a contribution which helped the team to become champions of the Vanarama National League for the 2017-18 season.

Having been released by Macclesfield Town at the end of the 2017-18 season there must have been a change of heart as Koby signed a further one-year deal during the summer of 2018. Koby was in and out of the team, and even when he made the starting line-up he often found himself substituted with the result that he did not manage to force his way into the team to feature on a regular basis.  He scored two goals in the opening match of the season in the late defeat at Swindon Town, an important goal in the 1-1 draw against Tranmere Rovers on New Year's Day and the winning goal in the Checkatrade Trophy match against West Bromwich Albion Under 21 side. Released by Macclesfield Town in the summer of 2019.

During a 2019-20 pre-season trial at Walsall incurred an Achilles injury which kept out of contention for some eight to nine months. Built up his fitness with Kidderminster Harriers, signing a contract with them for the 2020-21 season where he made his first league start for 615 days against Leamington on 7 November 2020. Having been released by Kidderminster at the end of the 2020-21 season moved up a level signing for Dover Athletic in the summer of 2021 from where he was released at the end of the 2021-22 season. Signed for Maidenhead United in the summer of 2022. Having been released by Maidenhead United in the summer of 2023, signed for National League North side Hereford FC om non-contract forms and in January 2024 signed dual registration forms with SFL Central - Premier side Stourbridge. Wanting to play regular football, Koby departed Hereford United at the end of January 2024 but continued to play for Stourbridge. In the summer of 2024 signed for National League North side Rushall Olympic.

Born: 31 January 1996.

2007-08 Midfielder

FL      League 7(1)0

Debut 12 January 2008 Peterborough United (Away)

James moved through the ranks at Sheffield United where he was awarded his first professional contract in July 2006 although he had not made any appearances for the senior side. 

Moved on loan to the Silkmen in the January 2008 transfer window, he appeared regularly in the centre of the midfield, and returned to Sheffield at the end of the season.

James spent the 2008-09 season on loan at Ferencvaros, the Blades partner club, signing for them on a permanent basis in 2009. He returned to the UK in the summer of 2010 signing for Worksop Town (September 2010) after which he moved to Frickley Athletic (February 2011), Matlock Town (summer of 2012), Staveley Miners Welfare FC (February 2015), Clipstone FC (summer 2015), Sheffield FC (February 2017), Handsworth Parramore FC (summer 2017) and Halesowen Town (July 2019).

Born: Sheffield, 2 March 1986.

2007-08 Defender

FL     League 19(0)1

Debut 12 January 2008 Peterborough United (Away)

Neil is a former Tranmere Rovers trainee who was given his first professional contract in April 2003, but only made one appearance for Tranmere from the substitutes’ bench before moving to Shrewsbury Town in December 2004, initially on loan and then permanently in the summer of 2005. During his time at Shrewsbury, Neil appeared over 140 times in all competitions but having spent much of his time on the bench in the 2007-08 season he moved to the Moss Rose in the January 2008 transfer window.

Neil replaced Kevin McIntyre at left-back who had moved in the opposite direction. He played with energy and commitment, his one goal coming in the home win against Barnet from a free-kick which sneaked through a crowd of defenders.

He returned to Shrewsbury at the end of the season moving to Chester City in the summer of 2009 and then signed for Wrexham in August 2010. Leaving Wrexham in the summer of 2015 he signed for Barrow where his contract was cancelled by mutual consent during the summer of 2016 so that he could sign for Southport. Neil moved to Wales in the summer of 2017 when he signed for Cefn Druids moving to Llandudno in September 2020.

Announced his retirement in April 2021 at the age of 36 having played for some 20 years.

Appointed manager of Cefn Druids from the start of the 2022-23 season on a two-year deal, the team having been relegated to Cymru North League from the Cymru Premier. Picked up the Manager of the Month award for November 2022 in the Cymru North League. Along with other members of the management team and many first team players left Cefn Druids at the end of the 2022-23 season.  Appointed manager at Cefn Albion, members of the Ardal North East league (Tier 3), on a two-year deal in the summer of 2023 but was released in November 2023.

Born: Liverpool, 15 January 1985.

Ashworth

1912-13 Centre-forward

LC     League 3 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 2 September 1912 Bacup (Away)

There is no information recorded for this player, however, as he only featured in the first three matches of the season he was probably on trial.

1984-85 to 1986-87 and 1989-90 Forward

NPL    League 100(7)27    Cups 35(2)6

Debut 18 August 1984 Marine (Home)

Conf    League 5(4)1    Cups 2(3)0

Bob was a newcomer to NPL football when he signed for the Silkmen from Milton United. He was a highly rated powerhouse centre-forward who troubled many defences and successfully partnered Steve Burr.  He was voted Player of the Year for the 1984-85 season and represented the FA XI in the 1986-87 Season. Bob was a member of the NPL Championship side in 1986-87 and gained a winners' medal for the Presidents Cup in the same year. However, he was hampered by injury during his last full season.  He returned to Macclesfield to help out during an injury crisis at the end of the 1989-90 Season scoring the winning goal at Cheltenham Town in his third match.

Bob joined Nantwich Town in the summer of 1990 when he was appointed captain for the 1990-91 season, and assistant manager for the 1991-92 season.

During the 2016-17 season Bob was Director of Football at West Midlands (Regional) League side Stone Old Alleynians.  Was appointed manager of Newcastle Town in the summer of 2017 leaving them by mutual consent in February 2018 after which he became Chairman of Stone Old Alleynians ahead of the 2018-19 season. During the 2023-24 season also held the position of Assistant Manager.

Born: 30 September 1957.

1965-66 Right-wing

CL      League 3 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 26 February 1966 Frickley Colliery (Away)

Colin was signed by Macclesfield in February 1966 on a match to match basis. His football career started at Port Vale as a junior in 1949, and during his time in the senior side Colin made 200 appearances scoring 21 goals playing alongside Albert Leake and Dickie Cunliffe, both future Silkmen.  Probably one of his most memorable matches was the time when Vale beat Blackpool 2-0 in the fifth round of the FA Cup in February 1954 when one of the Blackpool supporters was George Formby.  That day there were 42,000 supporters in the ground with a further 8,000 listening to the match commentary relayed to them outside the ground.  One supporter said that Colin was her man of the match and that he was their ‘Matthews’ of the day.

In 1958 he moved to Walsall (83 appearances, 12 goals) where he won promotion twice and later played for Mansfield Town (30 appearances, two goals), again winning promotion.  Colin then played for Wellington Town (1964) and Stafford Rangers (1965).

He is father of Bob and John and was often seen at the Moss Rose with his wife when John was a player and then manager.

Born: 3 October 1932.

1984-85 to 2017-18 Forward/Midfielder/Assistant Manager/Caretaker Manager/Manager

Manager - Matches 306, Won 136, Drawn 65, Lost 105, %Win 44.44%

NPL     League    21(0)3       Cups    12(0)6

Debut 29 December 1984 Sub Morecambe (Away)

Conf    League  304(6)75     Cups 127(4)37

FL        League  136(45)31   Cups   18(7)3

Debut 9 August 1997 Torquay United (Home)

John joined Macclesfield from Milton United having previously been at Port Vale and quickly established himself in the senior side, and was a member of the side which completed a non-League treble (NPL Championship, League Cup and Presidents Cup) in the 1986-87 season.  He represented England at semi-pro level and played for the prestigious Middlesex Wanderers during their tour of Japan in 1989-90. Breaking his leg in a pre-season friendly match at Winsford prior to the 1995-96 season, he was side-lined for the whole of the season but returned to play a valuable part in the Conference Championship side which won promotion to the Football League in 1997 having also been a member of the Conference Championship side in 1994-95.

John won many non-League honours, the only missing one is a FA Trophy winners’ medal because he was sidelined when the team won the Trophy in 1996. In addition to the honours listed above he gained three winners' medals for the Cheshire Senior Cup in 1991, 1992 and 1998, a Conference League Cup winners' medal in 1994, Staffordshire Senior Cup winners' medals in 1994 and 1997 and John added a Football League Division Three runners-up medal in the 1997-98 season. Equally at home on the right wing or as a striker, John was a skilful player who used the ball intelligently, with his highest scoring season coming in 1999-2000 with a tally of 15 goals in all competitions.

Well-liked and respected by the fans, he has been affectionately nicknamed  ‘Gentleman John’ or ‘Sir John’ such was his standing as player with the supporters who voted him Player of the Year in both the 1988-89 and 1999-2000 seasons.  Having made over 670 appearances, John played his final match on 3 May 2003, coming on from the substitutes’ bench in the home match against Rochdale to score, as he had done in his first match for Macclesfield in December 1984.

John became manager of the reserve side, and in his first season took them to the Avon Insurance League Division Two Championship. At the same time he was first team coach and in 2003-04 was appointed assistant manager to David Moss.  On the departure of Moss in November 2003, John became caretaker manager, taking over as manager in December 2003 but with results not going his way, returned to the position of assistant manager at the end of March 2004 on the appointment of Brian Horton as manager.

In November 2005, John was given six months’ notice to terminate his contract with the club, but at the beginning of the 2006-07 season he was given responsibility for the youth development at the club including manager of the youth team. 

Having been appointed caretaker manager for the final matches of the 2012-13 season following the dismissal of manager Steve King, John was appointed manager for the second time in the summer of 2013. He led his team to 15th position in the National Conference in the 2013-14 season and having featured in the play-off positions for the majority of the 2014-15 season, the team finished just outside the play-offs in 6th position. The 2015-16 season saw his team complete the campaign in 10th position and reach the third round of the FA Trophy. A relatively successful season in 2016-17 saw his team finish 9th in the Vanarama National League, reach the second round of the FA Cup and were finalists in the FA Trophy.

The 2017-18 season was John's most successful season to date as a manager leading his team to the championship of the Vanarama National League with a total of 92 points, 10 more than their nearest rivals Tranmere Rovers. With only four players registered from the previous season John was faced, yet again, with building virtually a new team on a restricted budget.  His choice of players was superb as they bonded as a unit from the start. During the season he had to deal with behind the scenes financial problems but his quiet leadership ensured that performances on the field rarely failed. Was the Vanarama National League Manager of the Month for December 2017 and  passed the 300 milestone for the number of matches as a caretaker manager/manager for the Silkmen. At the end of the season his percentage win ratio as a manger of 44.44% is only second to Sammy McIlroy for Macclesfield managers in more recent times. Won the accolade of Manager of the Year, sponsored by FieldTurf, in the 2017-18 National Game Awards and was named Vanarama National League Manager of the Year. Also, in acknowledgement of all his endeavors for Macclesfield Town Football Club since 1984 was appointed a Freeman of the Borough of Macclesfield.

The away standing area at the Moss Rose, Macclesfield is named 'The John Askey Terrace'.

John was appointed manager at Sky Bet League One side Shrewsbury Town on 1 June 2018 signing a three-year deal but following indifferent results he was dismissed on 12 November 2018. On 4 February 2019 John was appointed manager at Port Vale, where he started his career, until the end of the season with the remit that Vale should retain their EFL status. Signed a three year contract at Vale in May 2019 but with recent results not going his way was dismissed on 4 January 2021.

Assisted the management team in phoenix club Macclesfield FC during the early part of the 2021-22 season moving to York City in November 2021 in a similar role and shortly after was appointed interim manager following the departure of manager Steve Watson. In April 2022 his managerial appointment was confirmed as a permanent role. Led his side to promotion to the Vanarama National League via the Play-offs at the end of the 2021-22 season. Having turned down an offer from Rochdale, in September 2022 it was announced by York City that John had signed a one-year extension to his contract, however, he was dismissed in the middle of November 2022 having expressed to the directors earlier in the month his unhappiness with the way his role was being managed. Unfortunately, the directors in their statement stated that John had expressed a wish to leave the club, a fact which John denied. Appointed manager at Hartlepool United on 23 February 2023. Despite the club's relegation a statement was issued assuring fans of John's future at the club which was endorsed when he signed an extension to his contract until the summer of 2026 but was dismissed by the club at the end of December 2023. Appointed manager at National League South side Truro City on a multi-year deal in the summer of 2024.

Born: Stoke-on-Trent, 4 November 1964.

Aspinall

1919-20 Left-sided forward

CL      League 1 App 0 Goals     Cups 2 Apps 1 Goal

Debut 5 April 1920 Witton Albion (Away) Cheshire League Subsidiary Competition

Came from the Stockport District and had been playing in the Macclesfield reserve side, he was called into the senior side to help out when the club were fulfilling half the matches in the Subsidiary Competition in the final weeks of the season.  His one goal came in the 1-7 loss at Mossley.

Aspinall

1966-67 Defender

CL      League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 21 April 1967 Runcorn (Away)

With five senior players side-lined, Aspinall was one of the reserves drafted in for the match against Runcorn when he played at right full-back, George Sievwright having moved to right-half. It was reported that the revised back line served the Silkmen well.

Atkinson

1912-13 Right-back

LC     League 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 9 April 1913 South Liverpool (Away)

There is no information recorded about this player who was probably given a trial in this late season match.

Atkinson Andy

1993-94

Conf    Cups 1(1)1

Debut 15 November 1993 Pelsall Villa (Away) Staffordshire Senior Cup R2

His single goal came in the ill-fated 7-1 victory against Colwyn Bay in the Cheshire Senior Cup when the Silkmen were disqualified for fielding an ineligible player.

1931-32 and 1933-34 Defender

CL        League 39 Apps 2 Goals     Cups 12 Apps 0 Goals

Debut 1 January 1932 Stalybridge Celtic (Home)

As a 17-year-old played for Rosehill Villa and was a member of the team who were Northern Amateur League Champions and Cup holders. Probably at this time he was a boiler man. In 1925 he made three Football League appearances at South Shields after which Frank spent two seasons at Newcastle United as an amateur before moving to Dundee for a season, and then Scunthorpe United and Accrington Stanley before signing for Macclesfield at the beginning of 1932.

In the 1931-32 season Frank's appearances came when Harry Sharples was not in the side. Frank was unable to play for Macclesfield during the 1932-33 season due to family illness but he made a few appearances for Fleetwood at this time. In the 1933-34 season he appeared regularly either at right-half or centre-half. 

Audel Thierry

2012-13 and 2014-15 Defender

NC     League 31(0)3      Cups 1(0)0

Debut 19 January 2013 Kidderminster Harriers (Home)

His career started in the youth ranks in Nice, FC Istres and Auxerre, moving to their senior ranks in 2006.  Thierry featured in their B team making over 30 league appearances before moving to the Slovenian side Izola for a short time and then Triestina (Serie B). During his time there he had a successful loan spell in the 2008-09  season with San Marino (Serie C).  He also had a trial with Portsmouth but on leaving Triestina in mid 2010 he signed for Serie C side AC Pisa 1909.

A defender who can play on either the right flank or in the centre, he signed for Macclesfield in January 2013. After making his debut he was ever-present in the Macclesfield side forming a partnership with fellow centre-back Pablo Mills proving to be a strong defender.  His one cup appearance came in the club's record breaking fourth round of the FA Cup against Wigan Athletic.

Moved to Crewe Alexandra in the summer of 2013 but could not break into the senior side only making five appearances.  Spent two spells on loan at Lincoln City where he made 18 appearances. His contract with Crewe was cancelled mutually in February 2015 when he signed again for Macclesfield Town. He went straight into the side as a central defender playing in all the remaining Vanarama Conference matches in the 2014-15 season. He scored two goals: the winning and only goal in the home match against AFC Telford United in March, and the second strike in the 2-0 home win against Dartford in April.

Having been offered a contract with Macclesfield Town for the 2015-16 season Thierry understandably elected to sign for Football League side Notts County. Signed for AFC Barrow in the summer of 2017 and having been released by them at the end of the 2017-18 season signed for Welling United in July 2018 moving to Brackley Town in June 2019.

Moved abroad in August 2020 to play for Italian side Rapallo Rivarolese in the fifth tier of Italian football. In July 2022 signed as a player for F.S. Sestrese Calcio 1919 (Fifth tier of Italian football, an amateur League), where he was also given the role of athletic trainer in their youth area.

Also offers a personal training service (www.audelsports.com).

Born: 15 January 1987, Nice, France.

Austerbury George

1933-34 Outside-right

CL     League 3 Apps 2 Goals     Cups 1 App 0 Goals

Debut 24 March 1934 Sandbach Ramblers (Away)

Had been 'assisting' at Denton prior to making a handful of appearances for Macclesfield in late March early April 1934.  His two goals came in the 6-1 victory at Tranmere Rovers. On leaving Macclesfield moved to Congleton Town and then made a single appearance for Mossley in the 1935-36 season

Avery

1876-77

Debut 17 Febuary 1877 Leek (Away)

There is no information recorded for this player who was drafted into the side for the match at Leek when Macclesfield fielded a weakened team.

From 1965 statistics are shown as - Appearances(Substitutes)Goals 

#Known appearances and goals.  Due to the style of reporting there is no information for teams/goal scorers for some matches and in other cases it has only been possible to extract part teams from match reports. Also, some matches over the Christmas and Easter holiday periods, together with end of season matches, have not been reported.