The Youth Academy’s ‘Future Imps Fund’ has received a fantastic boost from Lincoln City legend, Graham Taylor OBE.
The Youth Academy’s ‘Future Imps Fund’ has received a fantastic boost from Lincoln City legend, Graham Taylor OBE. Taylor, who began his managerial career with the Imps and famously led City to a record-breaking fourth division championship title in 1976, has added his support to the Academy’s campaign to raise the funds it needs to continue now its central Football League funding has ceased.
“Lincoln City is where I began in management, and it will always be close to my heart,” said Taylor, who is also the club’s Patron. “The development of young players in this country is more important than ever and Lincoln City’s Academy has an excellent track record in producing players both for the first team, and for other clubs higher up the football pyramid.”
Taylor became the youngest ever FA coach at just 27, and in 1972 became the youngest manager in the football league when he was appointed Lincoln City chief at just 28. Following his success here at Sincil Bank, he led Watford from Division Four to runners-up in Division One in just five years, before joining Aston Villa.
His illustrious career then took him to England before returning to club management at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Taylor remains the only manager to have twice led teams to a points total over 70 points in a season – under the previous points system of two points for a win. As well as Patron of Lincoln City he is also Honorary Life Patron at Watford.
“The Academy here still holds an important place in the hearts and minds of the club’s supporters and the local community,” continued Taylor. “There is a tremendous amount of pride in representing your local professional club and its vital that the Academy continues to play its part in sustaining the community spirit of Lincoln City Football Club. I would urge everyone to support the Academy’s Future Imps Fund in whatever way they can,” he added.
