Colin Appleton

Colin Appleton (born 7 March 1936 in Scarborough) is a former footballer who played as a wing-half. Appleton began his career at Scarborough, but made his name making 333 appearances for Leicester City during a 12-year period, where he formed a legendary half-back partnership with Frank McLintock and Ian King. He was captain of the celebrated Leicester side nicknamed the "ice kings" which chased the double in 1962–63 and he also captained the club to their first ever major honour, winning the 1964 League Cup.

He later playing for Charlton Athletic and Barrow, before re-joining and managing Scarborough. He went on to manage Hull, Swansea and Exeter City.

Career

Playing career

Leicester City

Appleton began his career as a youngster with his hometown club of Scarborough before joining Leicester City in March 1954, just days after his 18 birthday, after being recommended to manager Norman Bullock by then Scarborough manager and former Leicester player Reg Halton. He made his first team debut just six months later against Manchester City, though made just 5 senior appearances over the next 2 years as he tried to balance his football schedule with his national service.

However in the 1956–57 season he began to see more first team action, helping Leicester on their to the Second Division title. However, it wasn't until the appointment of Matt Gillies in November 1958 until Appleton's career at Leicester really began to blossom. Under Gillies, Appleton made the...
Read More