In conversation with ........... Joe Royle

Joe Royle was at City for barely two and a half years [11/77-7/80] but rarely has a player had a greater impact on their debut than he did by grabbing all 4 goals in a 4-1 win at home to Middlesborough.

It wasn’t until I did some research prior to interview that I realised what a coup it was for Alan Dicks to sign Joe who was still very much in his prime at age 28.

Joe made his debut for Everton at 16 and by 21 was an ever present in the 1969/70 League Champions side and was averaging a goal every other game. He moved to Man City in 1974 before his time at Ashton Gate and after here he ended his playing career at Norwich City.

Joe's managerial record is top drawer - check it out on Wiki. From the interview it sounds like we could have had him twice!!!!