On this day in 1954, Arsenal goalkeeper George Swindin was signed by the then non-league side Peterborough United on a free transfer as their player-manager. Swindin spent four years in charge of Midland League Peterborough, significantly contributing to their preparation for League membership. Although Peterborough achieved League status in 1960, Swindin had already returned to Highbury by then, taking on the role of Arsenal manager.
3rd February 1960
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In the 1959/60 FA Cup season, Crewe Alexandra faced Tottenham Hotspur in the Fourth Round, initially drawing 2-2 at Gresty Road. The replay took place on 3rd February 1960 at White Hart Lane, where Tottenham Hotspur secured a resounding 13-2 victory over Crewe Alexandra.
3rd February 1974
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On 3rd February 1974, Swindon Town player Jimmy Allan became the first Football League player to refuse to play on a Sunday due to religious reasons. Allan, a devout Christian, missed the Division 2 match between Swindon and Bolton at the County Ground. Despite Swindon manager Les Allen expressing respect for Allan’s views, the goalkeeper found himself omitted from several subsequent matches. Prior to the Bolton fixture, Allan had been an ever-present in the 27 League matches Swindon played in the 1973/74 season. However, following the Bolton match, he was selected for only two of the next eight League games.
3rd February 1984
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On this day in 1984, millionaire publisher Robert Maxwell made a £10 million bid for Manchester United. The bid was ultimately unsuccessful, and in the context of modern football valuations, £10 million now seems like a modest sum.
On 3rd February 2007, former Tesco worker Karen Child won a Lotto jackpot of £8,471,383 with a £1 lucky dip. The cheque was presented to her at Old Trafford, but it was her local club, Chesterfield, that soon benefited from her generosity. Child sponsored the Kop end at Chesterfield’s former home at Saltergate, and later, the south stand at their new ground was named the Karen Child Stand.