John Gidman

John Gidman (born 10 January 1954) is a former English footballer who played for Aston Villa, Everton, Manchester United, Manchester City, Stoke City and Darlington.

Career

Gidman played for the Liverpool youth team without ever playing for their first team, before he joined Aston Villa in 1971. He was a member of the 1977 League Cup winning side. In August 1979 Gidman demanded better terms, despite two years remaining on his existing contract; Ron Saunders agreed that he could leave the club. He was subsequently signed by Everton for £650,000 in a deal which saw midfielder Pat Heard move the other way at a valuation of £100,000.

Gidman then became Manchester United's new manager Ron Atkinson's first signing as he moved to United in 1981 as part of a £450,000 swap deal, with Mickey Thomas moving to Everton. He helped United win the FA Cup in 1983 and 1985. After scoring 4 goals in 120 appearances for United (including 4 substitute appearances), he left the club for rivals Manchester City in 1986. During his two seasons at City, the club was relegated to the Second Division. He then moved to Stoke City and Darlington, and retired after seeing his final club relegated to the Football Conference in 1989.