Table of Contents
Dave Clements, a prominent figure in Northern Irish football history, left a lasting impact both on the pitch and in management
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David Clements: Bio
A Football Legend from Northern Ireland
David Clements, born on 15 September 1945, is a revered figure in the world of football.1
Hailing from Northern Ireland, Clements made a name for himself as both a player and a manager.
His versatility on the field allowed him to excel in various positions, including left winger, defensive midfielder, and left full back.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Clements’ football journey began in 1964 when he joined Coventry City. His skill and dedication quickly caught the attention of fans and critics alike.
Clements’ time at Coventry City laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career.
Playing Career Highlights
During his playing career, which spanned from 1964 to 1976, Clements represented several prestigious clubs, including Sheffield Wednesday and Everton.
His impressive performances and unwavering commitment to the game earned him a total of 392 league appearances and 32 goals.
International Success
Clements’ talents were not limited to the domestic stage. He proudly represented the Northern Ireland national team, earning 48 caps between 1965 and 1976.
His contributions to the team were invaluable, and he scored two goals during his international career.
Managerial Stint and Move to the NASL
After retiring as a player, Clements transitioned into management. He took charge of the Northern Ireland national team from 1975 to 1976, showcasing his leadership skills and tactical acumen.
Clements then embarked on a new chapter in his career, joining the NASL in the United States.
Legacy and Influence
David Clements’ impact on football extends far beyond his playing days. His versatility, passion, and dedication to the sport have left an indelible mark on the footballing world. He continues to be celebrated as a true legend of the game.
David Clements’ journey from a promising young talent to a footballing icon is a testament to his skill, determination, and love for the game.
His legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers and managers around the world, highlighting the enduring impact of true sporting greatness.
Dave Clements: Early Life and Education
From Larne to Wolverhampton Wanderers
Dave Clements, a sports prodigy, began his journey to greatness at Larne Grammar School.2
He showed exceptional talent in both football and rugby union, showcasing his skills at the national level in schoolboy, youth, and amateur categories.
Despite his young age, Clements was already making waves in the sporting world.
Football Career Beginnings
Clements started his football career at Millbrook, a Larne suburban team, where he honed his skills and proved himself as a promising player.
His talent caught the eye of scouts from Portadown F.C., an Irish league club, and he signed with them in 1961.
Clements quickly became a key player for Portadown, showcasing his skill and determination on the field.
Move to Wolverhampton Wanderers
After a remarkable performance in a 2–0 victory for the Irish amateur team against Wales in January 1963, Clements caught the attention of English Division One club Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Impressed by his talent and potential, Wolverhampton Wanderers signed Clements, marking a significant milestone in his football career.
Achievements and Legacy
Dave Clements’ move to Wolverhampton Wanderers was a turning point in his career, as he went on to achieve great success with the club.
His skill, dedication, and passion for the game made him a beloved figure among fans and a respected player in the football world.
Dave Clements’ journey from Larne to Wolverhampton Wanderers is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination.
His legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers everywhere.
Dave Clements: Career
Dave Clements began his football journey as an apprentice at Wolverhampton Wanderers.3
However, his time with Wolves, lasting just over a year, did not see him break into the first team.
Move to Coventry City
Despite his initial setback at Wolves, Clements attracted the attention of Coventry City manager Jimmy Hill. Hill saw potential in the young player and decided to sign him for £1,500 at the start of the 1964–65 season.
Clements made an impressive start to his career at Coventry, scoring on his debut against Northampton Town on 23 January 1965. He continued his goal-scoring form, netting eight times in his first ten matches.
International Recognition
Clements’ performances at Coventry did not go unnoticed on the international stage. In March 1965, at just 19 years old, he earned the first of his 48 caps for the Northern Ireland national team in a match against the Netherlands.
He became an integral part of the Northern Ireland setup, representing his country with pride and earning a total of 21 caps while playing for Coventry.
Success at Coventry
During his time at Coventry, Clements was a key player in the team’s success. He played a crucial role in helping Coventry win the Second Division championship in the 1966–67 season.
Clements’ versatility allowed him to play as an outside left for much of his time at Coventry, showcasing his adaptability and skill on the field.
Departure from Coventry
After six successful years at Coventry, manager Noel Cantwell surprisingly decided to let Clements move on. Despite rejecting a move to Hull City in February 1971, Clements eventually joined Sheffield Wednesday in August of the same year.
His transfer to Sheffield Wednesday was part of a combined deal that also included Brian Joicey and cost the Yorkshire club £100,000.
Dave Clements’ time at Coventry City was marked by his commitment, skill, and dedication to the game. His contributions both at the club level and on the international stage have left a lasting impact on the sport.
Dave Clements: Manager
A Journey Through Soccer Management
Dave Clements’ managerial career is a fascinating tale of ups and downs, spanning different continents and leagues.
Taking over as the Northern Ireland manager at the young age of 29, Clements embarked on a managerial journey that would see him lead teams in various capacities and achieve significant recognition in the world of soccer.
Early Challenges and Achievements
Clements began his managerial career during the winter of 1974–75, midway through the qualification matches for Euro 76.
His first game as manager, a Euro 76 qualifier against Yugoslavia in Belfast, resulted in a remarkable 1–0 victory, instilling hope for Northern Ireland’s qualification.
However, despite this early success, Northern Ireland’s journey in the tournament was cut short due to subsequent defeats, including a crucial loss to Sweden and a heartbreak in Belgrade against Yugoslavia.
Continuing the Journey
Despite the setbacks, Clements continued to lead Northern Ireland into 1976. However, results were not in his favor, with the team suffering defeats in all three matches of the British Home Championship.
These disappointing results marked the end of Clements’ tenure as both manager and player for the national team, with his final game being against Wales in Swansea on 14 May 1976.
International Stardom and Transition to Coaching
Following his time with the national team, Clements ventured into international stardom, joining the New York Cosmos in the NASL.
Playing alongside legendary players like Pelé, Clements made a name for himself and was named in the All-Star Honourable Mention Team for his performances in 1976.
He also represented Team America in the Bicentenary Cup against Italy, Brazil, and England, showcasing his skills on a global stage.
Transitioning from player to coach, Clements took on the role of coaching the Colorado Caribous in 1978, followed by coaching stints with three teams in the Major Indoor Soccer League.
His coaching prowess was recognized with the prestigious US Coach of the Year award in 1982 and 1987, highlighting his impact on the soccer scene in the United States.
Life Beyond Soccer
After his coaching career, Clements moved away from soccer and pursued other ventures. He settled in the Denver area, where he ran his own Irish shop and worked as a salesman in St. Louis, Missouri.
Additionally, he served as the CEO of a Denver-based company specializing in the manufacturing of Cotton Candy machines.
Legacy and Impact
Dave Clements’ journey through soccer management is a testament to his passion and dedication to the sport.
His ability to transition from player to successful coach, achieving recognition and accolades along the way, highlights his influence on the game.
Today, Clements’ legacy lives on, inspiring aspiring coaches and players to pursue their dreams in the world of soccer.
