Members News: A Transatlantic 79th Birthday Best To ‘Our Clem’!

Dave in the Sky Blue

CCFPA speaks on behalf, we are sure, of the whole Sky Blue family in wishing left winger hero of the Sky Blues 1960s sides, Dave Clements a very happy 79th birthday today! He was born in Larne, County Antrim on 15 September 1945. Dave, who lives in the United States of America today, has in the past flown in to CCFPA events and reunions from time to time and is always given a warm welcome. We know he keeps in touch with all things Sky Blue.

Dave at a previous Ricoh reunion

Dave was an integral part of the ‘Sky Blue Revolution’ making nearly 250 league appearances for the Sky Blues between 1964-71 scoring 34 goals. He was a strong, tenacious player remembered most for his surging left wing runs and crosses. Fellow CCFPA member and the deeply missed Jimmy Hill snapped up the Wolverhampton Wanderers apprentice and was repaid by a debut goal in January 1965.

Dave in Sky Blue action

First capped for Northern Ireland at age 19 Dave eventually made 48 appearances for his country. Perhaps surprisingly, JH’s successor as City manager, Noel Cantwell let Dave move on to Sheffield Wednesday (with fellow CCFPA member Brian Joicey) after six years at Highfield Road.

Dave was also a popular player with the Owls and at Everton where he finished his UK career in 1976 (having a brief spell managing his country). From 1978 Dave then played and managed in the States for the likes of Colorado Caribous, Denver Avalanche, St Louis Steamers and Kansas City Comets.

Look who Dave played with whilst in the States!

CCFPA hopes it will not be too long before Dave returns and comes back to see us at the CBS Arena. We hope he has a great day at his home in the USA!

Thanks to CCFPA’s Mike Young (& Dean Nelson) for sourcing the images.