Steve Fleet dead aged 87: Former Man City and Wrexham goalkeeper passes away after cancer battle as tributes pour in

Former Manchester City and Wrexham goalkeeper Steve Fleet has passed away at the age of 87 following a battle with cancer.

Another of his former clubs, Stockport County, announced the news of his death on Wednesday. 

Fleet, born in Salford, began his footballing journey as a schoolboy with Bolton Wanderers before signing as an amateur with Man City in 1953.

His career then saw him play for Wrexham and later Stockport, where he was part of the squad that won the Fourth Division title in 1967.

After a brief return to City, he finished his playing days with Altrincham before transitioning into coaching.

He became a respected youth coach, spending 25 years at Man City.

Fleet also held a coaching role at Stockport, where he briefly served as caretaker manager.

He coached abroad too in the early 1980s, when he managed IA Akranes and then IBV in Iceland.

Stockport confirmed Fleet’s passing in a club statement, calling him a ‘County hero’ and praising his dedication to the game.

‘Steve was a well-liked and respected person, who gave so much to help the careers of numerous footballers,’ a club spokesperson said.

‘He remained active until very recently, when he was diagnosed with pancreatic and liver cancer. Everyone at Edgeley Park sends our deepest condolences to his son Wesley, his wider family and all his friends at this very sad time.’

Tributes have poured in from elsewhere too, with Man City’s former players’ association, Once a Blue, also paying respects.

In a statement shared on social media, Once a Blue said: ‘It is with great sadness that we have to tell you about the passing of yet another former City player, Steve Fleet.

‘Our thoughts are with Steve’s family and friends. He was truly committed to our football club. God bless Steve.’