The new MCFC Academy was still several years away, but once it formed in 1998, Jordan quickly progressed through the various age levels after impressing in defence for the youth team
Despite becoming a regular in the reserves, he still had to wait until just after his 21st birthday to make his senior debut.
That came alongside fellow graduate Joey Barton in a 2-0 defeat away to Bolton in April 2003, but he had gained valuable experience on loan to Cambridge United earlier that season, playing 11 times while at the Abbey Stadium.
His versatility enabled him to play anywhere across the back four, though left-back was his preferred position.
Stuart Pearce’s two seasons in charge saw Jordan frequently called upon as a back-up to more experienced defenders, though he was steady and reliable when he did play.
Jordan will perhaps best be remembered by City fans for an excellent performance against Cristiano Ronaldo during a home Manchester derby when he has outstanding
...The Graduates
So much so in fact, that the now Real Madrid striker shown a red card after a frustrating afternoon against the City No.3.
Despite more than 60 appearances for the Blues, Jordan eventually followed Pearce out of City at the end of the 2006/07 season when his contract was not renewed.
Talented youngsters with Premier League experience going for free don’t stay out of work for long and Owen Coyle, then in charge of Burnley, soon snapped up the Academy graduate.
During Jordan’s three years at Turf Moor, the Clarets were promoted to the Premier League and also relegated, but despite racking up over 70 appearances, he was released following Burnley’s demotion to the Championship.
Sheffield United wasted no time in snapping up the experienced left-back, but after a change of management at Bramall Lane, Jordan was sent out on loan to Huddersfield Town.
He made just a handful of games for Lee Clark’s side, before returning to the Blades but was released towards the end of 2010/11.
At the time of writing, Jordan is not attached to a club and is now a free agent.
Anyone who witnessed his display against Ronaldo will wonder why, but at 29, there’s time for the defender to re-emerge and finish his career off in a more fitting manner.
