Famous Players – The 1970’s

Brian (“Nobby”) Horton

Brian was recruited from Hednesford Town by Vale manager Gordon Lee in 1970. Lee was rumoured to have clinched the deal for “a pint of shandy” in a period where Vale were struggling financially.  In fact the arrangement involved Lee allowing Hednesford to keep all the receipts from a pre-season game against the Valiants.

Brian had earned the nickname “Nobby”, due to the supporters comparing his determined midfield style of play to that of England World Cup winner Nobby Styles, and he quickly established himself in the Vale team. He ultimately became a mainstay in the midfield for the following 6 seasons.

It came as a surprise and disappointment to Vale supporters when Nobby was sold to league rivals Brighton for £30,000 in March 1976 in order “to balance the books”.

Brian helped Brighton to win 2 promotions, ultimately playing for them in the top flight.  He also played for Luton and Hull making a career total of almost 700 appearances before retiring.

He then managed a total of 8 clubs, including Hull, Brighton, Manchester City and period at Vale between 1999 -2004, when he guided the Valiants to win the League Trophy in 2001. He managed over 1000 games in all.