The football world is in mourning following the death of Tottenham Hotspur and England great Martin Chivers at the age of 80. The powerful striker, affectionately known as 'Big Chiv', was the spearhead of Bill Nicholson's celebrated Spurs side that secured significant silverware in the early 1970s.
From Southampton to Spurs: The Making of a Record Signing
Born to a Southampton docker and a German mother, Chivers' football journey began at his hometown club. He made his first-team debut for Southampton at just 17 after writing to the club to request a trial. His prowess helped the Saints win promotion to the top flight in 1966.
His form attracted the attention of Tottenham manager Bill Nicholson, who was seeking a forward in the mould of the legendary Bobby Smith. In January 1968, Chivers moved to White Hart Lane for a British record fee of £125,000, with Frank Saul moving in the opposite direction.
Overcoming Adversity to Become a Tottenham Icon
The transition was not seamless. Chivers' early days at Spurs were marked by a difficult relationship with Nicholson, who challenged the striker's perceived lack of physicality. A serious knee injury at 23 threatened to end his career before it truly began, requiring extensive rehabilitation.
His comeback was cemented in a famous match against Stoke City in October 1970, where he scored a spectacular goal, curling the ball past the great Gordon Banks. From that point, Chivers became indispensable.
He was the hero of the 1971 League Cup final, scoring both goals in a 2-0 win over Aston Villa at Wembley. His crowning moment came in the 1972 UEFA Cup final against Wolves. After heading Spurs ahead at Molineux, he unleashed a legendary 25-yard thunderbolt to secure a 2-1 first-leg lead, a goal he later described as the hardest shot he ever hit.
A Legacy of Goals and Glory
Chivers' power and pace, belying a sometimes languid style, made him a nightmare for defenders. He helped Spurs reach four finals in as many years and was a key figure as they lifted the League Cup again in 1973. He also scored 13 goals in 24 appearances for England.
His final game for the national side was the fateful 1-1 draw against Poland at Wembley in 1973, which denied England a place at the 1974 World Cup.
In total, Chivers made 367 appearances for Tottenham, scoring 174 goals, placing him in the club's top five all-time scorers. He later played for Servette in Switzerland, Norwich, Brighton, and had a spell as player-manager at Dorchester Town.
After football, he ran a hotel in Hertfordshire, worked for the Football Association, and was a beloved member of Tottenham's matchday legends team. He is survived by his wife Julia, their four children, and grandchildren.
