Played For Luton And Chelsea – Mick Harford

After covering Mal Donaghy in the first of our series covering those players who have played for both club ahead of the FA Cup tie, this weekend, I have chosen Mick Harford as the second.

Born in February 1959, the mere mention of the name of Michael Gordon Harford brings an immediate smile of recognition from Luton supporters.

Harford, after his exploits, on and off the field, for Luton Town has legendary status amongst the support.

The centre-forward had enjoyed a decent career, playing for Lincoln City, Newcastle United, Bristol City and Birmingham City before, in December 1984, David Pleat paid Birmingham City a transfer fee of £250,000 for the player.

While at Kenilworth Road, Harford, in the period between 1984 and 1990, made 139 league appearances scoring on 57 occasions. In what was to become his first spell with the club, Harford was part of the victorious squad that beat Arsenal to win the League Cup, in 1988.

But, in January 1990, Harford moved on, signing for Derby County for a fee of £450,000.

In September 1991, Harford re-joined Luton, from Derby, for a fee of £325,000 but despite scoring 12 goals in 29 games he could not stop Luton from being relegated.

Harford’s second spell at Kenilworth Road came to an end in August 1992 when he signed for Chelsea with Luton receiving a transfer fee of £300,000.

His spell at Chelsea lasted just the one season but his claim to fame whilst with the London club is that he scored Chelsea’s first ever goal in the Premier League, against Oldham Athletic.

After leaving Chelsea, Harford finished his career with spells with Sunderland, Coventry City and Wimbledon.

But Harford’s love for Luton Town has seen him return several times, occupying numerous roles including, manager, assistant manager, director of football, first team coach and chief recruitment officer.

This season his presence, as a major part of the backroom team, is part of the reason why the club are looking as if they will consolidate their place in the Championship.

A formidable figure, Harford has often been mentioned as the best player Luton have ever had. I am not sure he deserves that accolade but there is no doubting he is one of a kind and will forever have a place in our hearts.