Everyone associated with Port Vale FC is saddened to learn of the death of our former goalkeeper John Connaughton.
Born Patrick John Connaughton in Wigan in September 1949, he began his career at Manchester United and also played for Halifax and Torquay United on loan, before signing for Sheffield United.
John joined the Vale in May 1974 and soon became the regular number one and his performances earned him the Supporters’ Player of the Year award for the 1974/75 season. He helped the club reach the 5th Round of the FA Cup in 1976/77 and hardly missed a game in his first four years.
In January 1980, John moved to Altrincham on a free transfer and retired from the game due to business interests two years later. He sadly passed away on Saturday in Fulwood, Preston, aged 73.
Our thoughts are with John’s wife, Anne, and all who knew him at this sad time.