A New Chapter in Education
Every day is a school day for Clive Wilson, but these days, he’s on the other side of the pitch. Since 2019, the former Tottenham Hotspur left-back has been a permanent supply teacher at Roding Valley High School in Loughton, Essex. At 63, Wilson’s journey from professional footballer to educator has been as inspiring as it is unexpected. His transition into teaching began in 2008, after retiring from football in 2000 and working briefly for brands like Le Coq Sportif and Ted Baker. Wilson’s entry into the education field was serendipitous; it started with a casual conversation at a golf driving range with a Fulham fan who recognized him and suggested he consider teaching. Wilson had initially visited local schools to rule out teaching, but the experience had the opposite effect. "I haven’t looked back!" he exclaims, grateful for the advice that led him to this fulfilling career. Interestingly, two of his siblings are also teachers, a fact that adds a touch of irony to his former teasing about the profession’s generous holidays. Now, he fully appreciates the downtime, recognizing the demanding nature of teaching.
The Road to Professional Football
Growing up in Manchester, Wilson always dreamed of becoming a footballer, but by the age of 14, he thought his chance had slipped away. After leaving school at 16, he pursued a path in electrical and electronic engineering at college, setting his sights on becoming an electrician. However, fate intervened during his final year in college. Wilson was spotted playing at Hough End, Manchester’s equivalent to London’s Hackney Marshes, by Manchester City scout Len Davies. This fortuitous discovery marked the beginning of his professional career. In 1981, at the age of 18, Wilson made his debut for Manchester City in a League Cup tie against Stoke at Maine Road. "I was excited at the thought of maybe getting a chance on the bench," he recalls. "But when I saw I was in the starting lineup, reality hit me. It was nerve-wracking, but it all went OK, and we won 2-0." This early success laid the foundation for his eight-year stint at Maine Road, including two FA Youth Cup finals in 1979 and 1980, though they lost both to Millwall and Aston Villa.
Cultural Shock and New Beginnings
Wilson’s career took a significant turn in 1987 when he moved to London to join Chelsea. The move came with a significant cultural shock, especially regarding the cost of living. "I realize it’s nearly 40 years ago, but you could get a three-bedroom house in Sale for £35,000," he says. "In London, I was lucky if I could buy a garage for that!" Despite the financial challenges, Wilson embraced the new environment and the opportunity to play for a club in the capital. However, his first season at Stamford Bridge was marred by relegation from the top flight and a subsequent loss in the relegation play-offs against Middlesbrough. "The first season wasn’t great," Wilson admits. "But we bounced back the following season, scoring 99 league points from our 46 games." This resilience and determination would characterize his later years as a footballer.
Peak Performance at QPR
Wilson’s best playing years, he reflects, were under Gerry Francis at QPR between 1991 and 1994. "In retrospect, I think so," he says. "We finished fifth in the first all-new Premier League campaign in 1992-93 and maintained another top-half finish the following season." His time at QPR was marked by a strong team spirit and notable success, but it was also a period of personal growth. Wilson’s journey with Francis continued when he joined Tottenham Hotspur in 1995. The switch to Spurs, he explains, was a strategic decision. "Rangers boss Ray Wilkins wanted me to stay, but at 34, I saw the move to Spurs as possibly my last opportunity to play for one of English football’s big clubs. Working again with Gerry made it familiar for me." The four years he spent at White Hart Lane were cherished, and Wilson remains fondly remembered by the Tottenham faithful.
The Twilight of a Football Career
By 1999, Wilson knew his football career was winding down. At 38, he was experiencing a series of niggling injuries, and the decision to join Cambridge United seemed like a natural transition. "I was still undecided during that 1999-2000 season whether it would be my last," he confesses. "But a few weeks after the season ended, I realized that’s it." Wilson’s retirement was marked by a lack of fanfare, which suited him just fine. He looks back on his 20-year career with immense pride, recognizing the unique grounding and opportunities football provided. "The game gave me a great grounding in my life," he says. "I am extremely proud of my time as a player." Despite the occasional curiosity from students about his football past, Wilson remains humble and grounded, focusing on his new role as an educator.
Embracing the Classroom
Now, Wilson enjoys the downtime during school holidays, but he looks forward to returning to the classroom. "It’s been a nice pause, but I’ll enjoy going back and mixing with the children who, in the main, are a pleasure to teach and work with on a daily basis," he shares. His transition from football to teaching has been seamless, driven by a passion for helping young people grow and learn. Wilson’s experience on the pitch has taught him valuable lessons in discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities he now imparts to his students. His role at Roding Valley High School is a testament to the diverse and fulfilling life that awaits those who are open to new opportunities, no matter how unexpected they may seem.
