Derek Jefferson

Derek was born in Morpeth on September 5th, 1948 and joined Ipswich Town as a junior before signing as a professional in February 1966. He made his first team debut, as a central defender, on January 28th, 1967 in a 4-1 home win against Shrewsbury Town in the 3rd round of the FA Cup and remained in the first team for the next five years. During this time he established a reputation as being very much the 'hard man' of the team, rivalling such contemporary defenders as Norman Hunter and Tommy Smith in the tenacity of his approach to the game and earning the nickname of 'Chopper'.

Derek went on to play for Wolves and Hereford and also played in America - he then became Assistant Manager at Birmingham City for 5 years. Derek takes an evening talking about his football, his family and his faith. He can also take day sessions (or over several days) for youngsters of his Christian Soccer School.  For further details of the soccer schools please contact us.