Famous Players – The 2000’s

Steve McPhee

Glaswegian striker Steve was signed on a free transfer from Premier League club Coventry City by Vale manager Brian Horton in July 2001.   Despite his relatively short time at the club he would prove to be one of Horton’s best signings as Vale manager.

Steve finished his first season as the Valiant’s top scorer with 14 goals in 51 games and was the subject of a close season bid of £300,000 from Wigan Athletic. Vale accepted the offer but the transfer failed to materialise as Steve could not agree contract terms with Wigan.

After a barren spell in front of goal during the 2002-03 season Steve re-gained his scoring prowess during 2003-04.  He formed a strong partnership with fellow striker Steve Brooker and went on to net 27 times in 51 games as Vale finished just outside the League 1 play off places. This was the second highest tally in a season for a Vale player in 66 years and Steve was duly named as the club’s Player of the Year.

Then as negotiations over the renewal of Steve’s contract were in process the club turned down a £100,000 offer from Leeds Utd and Steve ultimately decided to move to Portuguese side Beira-Mar.  As Steve was out of contract when the move took place Vale did not receive a transfer fee.

After just one season in Portugal Steve returned to England to play for Hull City and then Blackpool, eventually finishing his playing career in 2010 due to a knee injury.