The former goalkeeper and coach sadly died aged 87
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Steve Fleet, who has died aged 87
Steve Fleet, who has died aged 87(Image: Stockport County)
Tributes have been paid to former footballer and youth coach Steve Fleet, who died recently following a battle with cancer.
The Salford-born goalkeeper joined Manchester City as an amateur in 1953, having played for Bolton Wanderers as a schoolboy.
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He moved to Wrexham in 1963 before joining Stockport County three years later, where he won the Fourth Division championship in 1966-67.
Steve returned to City the following season before finishing his playing career with Altrincham. He then began his coaching career back at County in January 1970, as a junior coach.
After more than three years which included a 15-game stint as caretaker manager, Steve returned to City once again, where he spent 25 years coaching young stars.
Steve was recently diagnosed with pancreatic and liver cancer, Stockport County said. He died earlier this month, aged 87.
In a statement announcing his death this morning (March 12), the club described him as a County hero.
"Steve was a well liked and respected person, who gave so much to help the careers of numerous footballers," a Stockport County spokesperson said.
"He remained active until very recently, when he was diagnosed with pancreatic and liver cancer.
"Steve was a Stockport County hero and a Football League champion.
"Everyone at Edgeley Park send our deepest condolences to his son Wesley, his wider family and all his friends at this very sad time."
In a post shared on X earlier this month, the Once a Blue Man City Former Players Club wrote: "It is with great sadness that we have to tell you about the passing of yet another former City player, Steve Fleet.
"Our thoughts are with Steve's family and friends. He was truly committed to our football club. God bless Steve x"