John Fitzpatrick, Manchester United stalwart of the 1960s and 1970s – obituary
Initially a squad player, he established himself at full-back but was forced by injury into retirement aged only 26
John Fitzpatrick in 1969
Credit: Colorsport/Shutterstock
John Fitzpatrick, who has died aged 74, was a versatile footballer for Manchester United; he eventually became a dependable full-back towards the end of the Matt Busby era and into the uncharted waters of life without the great manager at the helm.
He was born in Aberdeen on August 18 1946, and played for a local youth side, Thistle Lads’ Club. He was spotted by scouts from Manchester United in 1961, and signed as an apprentice the following year.