An event at Ellesmere Port Civic Centre last week saw former players including Mike Summerbee and Peter Reid, as well ex PFA Chief Executive Gordan Taylor, pay their tributes to the former England Captain and Manager.
A blue plaque was unveiled outside the town’s Civic Centre to a crowd of City Supporters, and the event also saw Joe’s family return a silver dining set that was originally gifted to them by the people of Ellesmere Port during his professional playing career.
Speaking at the unveiling, Mike Summerbee said: “Joe was much more than just a manager to me, he was like a father figure.
“Not only did he bring me to Manchester City, but he helped me to reach new heights and I will be forever grateful for his incredible influence on my career.
“Today’s event is a great celebration of his life both on and off the field, and I am pleased we are joined by his family and so many former colleagues for this fitting tribute to a great man.”
Joe was born in Ellesmere Port and followed in his father’s footsteps by turning out for the town’s football club before embarking on a professional career.
After a successful playing career which saw him win the FA cup at Everton and Arsenal, as well as two league titles at the Gunners, Joe turned his attention to management.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the Club’s history, Joe oversaw one of our most successful eras alongside his trusted assistant Malcolm Allison.
Together, the partnership yielded six trophies and saw future City legends Mike Summerbee and Colin Bell brought to Maine Road to help the Club re-establish itself in the top flight of English, and European, football.
During his time as manager of Manchester City between 1965 to 1971, Joe won the Second and First Division titles, the FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup-Winners’ Cup.
