Former Manchester City and Oldham Athletic striker Darren Beckford has died at the age of 59, his former clubs have announced. The Manchester-born forward, who made his first-team debut for City in 1984 at just 16 years old, was remembered in tributes posted on social media on Sunday.
Career across English and Scottish clubs
Beckford came through City's youth academy and went out on loan to Bury and Port Vale before securing a permanent move to Vale in 1987. He spent four years at Port Vale, making more than 150 appearances, before moving to Norwich for two years.
In 1993, he joined Oldham Athletic for £300,000, where he made 52 appearances and scored 11 goals. He left Boundary Park in 1996 to play for Hearts in Scotland, where he scored during their run to the Scottish League Cup final.
Later career and tributes
Beckford also had brief stints at Fulham, Walsall, Rushden and Diamonds, Southport, Total Network Solutions, Bury and Bacup Borough before retiring. He was the brother of Jason Beckford, who made more than 20 appearances for City in the late 1980s.
Manchester City paid tribute on X, posting: "Manchester City is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former City player and Academy graduate, Darren Beckford - truly one of our own. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Darren’s family and friends at this difficult time."
Oldham Athletic posted: "Everyone at the club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Darren Beckford. Darren made 52 appearances for Latics between 1993-1996. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Darren's family, friends and former teammates at this time. Rest in peace, Darren."
Port Vale expressed their grief, stating: "We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing for former player Darren Beckford who passed away this morning. Our thoughts are with Darren's friends, family and former team mates. He will of course be forever Valiant. RIP Darren."
Fans and supporters remember
An Oldham supporters' page commented: "Scored some important goals for us. Condolences go out to Darren's family and friends. Rest in peace, Darren." The 1894 Group, a City supporters' collective, posted: "Darren Beckford, brother of Jason. Local lad who played for City in the 80s. So young. RIP."
A City supporter reflected: "Manchester-born Darren was a prodigious young talent who came through the ranks at City, forming a formidable strike partnership with fellow youngster Paul Moulden. Together, they were a hugely exciting prospect, with many believing both had bright futures ahead of them."
"For those who remember Darren coming through City's youth ranks, he will always be remembered as a gifted young footballer with a natural ability to find the back of the net, and someone who was once tipped for a very bright future in sky blue. At times like this, football becomes secondary. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Darren's family, loved ones, former teammates, and all those fortunate enough to have known him. RIP Darren."
