SIMONSEN AND QUIXALL

 

I wonder if anyone out there remembers Allan Simonsen, the Danish midfielder, who played at his best between 1972-83, although he proved a useful asset to his nation's club Vijle, from Jutland, during his initial season 1971-2 (42 apps/16 goals) and his final seasons 1983-9 (166 apps/70 goals). From 1972 till 1986 he won 55 caps for his country and scored 20 goals.

He also played in the 1972 Summer Olympics for Denmark and in 1984 the European Championships and in 1986 in the World Cup.

From Vijle he went to Borussia Monchengladbach (1972-9), then Barcelona 1979-82, was replaced by Maradona and then he turned down an approach from Spurs, joining Charlton Athletic during their top flight season (1982-3), a club where he wanted to guarantee being picked! He cost Charlton a lot in wages. Despite doubling the crowd, the 'Latics couldn't afford him and after 4 months, Allan was moved back to his "home" club.

He has been European Footballer of the Year and won the Ballon d'Or 1976-7 and was honoured by being placed in the Danish Hall of Fame.

Later he managed Vejle, The Faroe Islands for seven years (8 wins 7 draws 37 losses), Luxembourg for 4 draws and 23 defeats. 

On this day too, I also celebrate Albert Quixall, who died today, aged 87. He was one of those baby faced footballers who appeared on the pages of Charles Buchan Football Annuals, looking like a teenager who had the world at his feet. He was the "Golden Boy" of soccer for a short time!

He was born in Sheffield, played for Wednesday 1950-8 (241 apps/63goals), was transferred to Manchester United 1958-64 (165/50) where he should have made his fortune but then he drifted to Oldham (who signed him for £7,000), Stockport County, Altrincham and Radcliffe Borough. He played 450 games and scored 124 goals. He played for England 5 times in 1954-5. He ended his time owning a scrap metal firm.

Matt Busby signed him post Munich for a RECORD fee of £45,000 and the idea was that he would supply Bobby Charlton with opportunities to score goals. Quixall won an FA Cup medal in 1963.