Stuart Pearson, Manchester United player

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Stuart Pearson was a popular and effective centre-forward, who played for Manchester United following the club’s relegation in 1973-1974. With sixty-six goals in four seasons, he helped restore the club’s fortunes and standing.

Pearson was born in Hull in 1949. He joined his local club, Hull City, in 1966 and remained there until 1974 when he signed for Manchester United. For three seasons he was Hull City’s leading scorer. Tommy Docherty brought him to Manchester United just after the club had been relegated. He wanted a traditional, goal-scoring centre-forward to help win promotion, and Stuart Pearson fitted the bill. Pearson was joint top scorer (with Lou Macari) in his first season and second in the list in each the following three seasons. In 1974-1975 his goals helped Manchester United return to the First Division. In 1975-1976 he played at Wembley in the FA Cup Final when Manchester United lost to Southampton. In 1976-1977, he played at Wembley again and scored in the FA Cup Final when Manchester United defeated Liverpool. After four good seasons, Pearson missed most of his fifth (1978-1979) following surgery on his knee. At the end of that season he wanted a longer contract than Manchester United want to give and, in the absence of agreement, left the club for West Ham United. He played in London for three more years before further knee trouble forced him to retire.

Pearson was popular with colleagues and supporters. He was a willing target man, always on the move and always available. His movement, touch and passing created space and opportunities for others, and his speed and ability to shoot created opportunities for himself. His confidence enabled him to play with a smile, and his raised fist and grin on scoring was a familiar sight. He and Jimmy Greenhoff were a particularly effective pairing.

Stuart Pearson spent his best years at Manchester United. In his five seasons (which were, effectively, only four) he made 180 appearances and scored 66 goals.

Pearson played fifteen times for England.

profile last updated November 2010