Former Oldham Athletic and Manchester City striker Darren Beckford has died aged 59. The Manchester-born forward was a product of City's youth team and made his first-team debut in 1984 aged just 16.
Beckford had loan spells at Bury and Port Vale before a permanent move in 1987 marked the start of a four-year spell with Vale, where he made more than 150 appearances. Following a two-year spell at Norwich, he joined Oldham in 1993 for £300,000 and made 52 appearances, scoring 11 goals.
Career after Oldham
After leaving Boundary Park in 1996, Beckford had a spell in Scotland with Hearts, where he scored in their run to the Scottish League Cup final. He also had short spells at Fulham, Walsall, Rushden & Diamonds, Southport, Total Network Solutions, Bury, and Bacup Borough before retiring.
Darren was a fan favourite at a number of local clubs including City, Oldham and Bury. He is the brother of Jason Beckford, who made more than 20 appearances for City in the late 80s.
Clubs pay tribute
News of Darren's death was confirmed by a number of his former clubs on social media today (Sunday, November 8). No cause of death has yet been given.
Oldham said in a post on X: "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 said: "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 remember a gifted striker
One Oldham fan page said: "Scored some important goals for us. Condolences go out to Darren’s family and friends. Rest in peace, Darren." City fan collective, the 1894 Group, said: "Darren Beckford, brother of Jason. Local lad who played for City in the 80s. So young. RIP."
City fan Mark McCarthy said: "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."
He added: "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."
