Paul Martyn Cheesley, born on October 20, 1953, in Bristol, epitomizes the potential of a player whose career was curtailed by injury just as it seemed to be taking off. A promising striker with flair, speed, and an eye for goal, His time in football left a significant mark, not only on the clubs he played for, but also on the fans.
Paul Cheesley started out at Norwich City, where he made his debut as a substitute in a League Cup tie against Chelsea on November 17, 1971. However, his first taste of league action came over a year later, on December 2, 1972, in a 2-0 home loss to Manchester United. Despite the setback, Cheesley showed glimpses of his ability, with a memorable first goal coming on December 15, 1973, in a 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Carrow Road. His potential was there for all to see, and while his spell at Norwich was relatively brief—making only 24 appearances and scoring once—it was enough to attract the attention of other clubs.
In December 1973, as Norwich found themselves in the midst of a relegation battle, Cheesley was sold to Bristol City for a transfer fee of £30,000. While his initial period at Ashton Gate was challenging, Cheesley’s fortunes would soon change. It was during City’s promotion campaign in the 1975–76 season that Cheesley truly began to shine. In a season where he formed a dynamic partnership with Tom Ritchie, the duo scored an impressive combined total of 33 goals, with Cheesley contributing 15. His contributions were crucial, and none more so than on the opening day of the First Division season, where City triumphed 1-0 over Arsenal at Highbury on the 21st of August 1976, with Cheesley scoring the only goal of the encounter.
The recognition of his talents didn’t go unnoticed, and Cheesley’s displays for Bristol City earned him a call-up to the England Under-23 team for a match against Hungary. However, in a telling moment of commitment to his club, Cheesley declined the opportunity, prioritizing a vital promotion clash with Sunderland over international duty. This decision reflected his loyalty, but it also showed a certain maturity—understanding the bigger picture of his club’s aspirations. Despite this, England manager Don Revie, who had long been an admirer, kept a keen eye on Cheesley’s progress. With his blend of skill, pace, and two-footed ability, it seemed inevitable that he would soon receive a full international call-up.
Yet, just days after the memorable victory over Arsenal, fate dealt a cruel blow. In a home match against Stoke City, Cheesley was involved in an aerial challenge with goalkeeper Peter Shilton. He got to the ball first but landed awkwardly, causing a severe knee injury that ripped his cartilage, tore ligaments, and chipped a bone. This injury ultimately forced him to retire from League football, and despite a brief attempt to return in a game against Birmingham City later that season, his playing days were over.
Though his top-flight career was cut short, he did not disappear from the football scene entirely. He enjoyed stints with non-league sides, including Yeovil Town, but the promise of what might have been lingered. His early retirement was a poignant reminder of how fragile a footballer’s career can be, and how even the most promising talents can be derailed by an unforeseen injury. After his playing days, he found a different kind of satisfaction as the landlord of The Knowle Hotel in Bristol, a role that allowed him to stay connected to the community.