When I mention a shaggy haired beast known as Killer, the first thing that comes to mind is undoubtedly Brian Kilcline. This born leader inspired numerous clubs to differing levels of greatness, with his FA Cup triumph with Coventry being his finest achievement.
Kilcline started his career with hometown club Notts County in 1979. During his time at Meadow Lane he helped the club gain promotion, and managed to win two England Under 21 Caps. County’s relegation in 1984 prompted Coventry City manager Bobby Gould to splash out £60,000 to secure the centre half’s services.
Within three years Killer was lifting the FA Cup at Wembley after Coventry’s fairytale victory over Tottenham. In total he made 211 appearances for the Sky Blues before his combative talents were again called upon for another footballing adventure.
Kevin Keegan drafted Kilcline into the hapless Newcastle back line, and within two seasons the Geordies had beaten relegation and then gained promotion to the new Premier League.
After guiding Newcastle and Keegan to the Promised Land, his services were no longer required. Though, this it did not stop Kilcline at having one last swan song in the top division. Unfortunately for Brian this time he took on mission impossible in trying to save and sure up Swindon Town’s leaky defence, which went on to concede a massive 100 goals in the process of getting relegated
Two years at Mansfield followed, before yet another heroic achievement in guiding Halifax into the football League. Kilcline was a true gladiator on the pitch who could hold his head aloft and hail ‘I am the Daddy.’ Who was going to argue with him?
