Famous Football Players > Colin Bell

Colin Bell

Colin Bell is a former English football player.

Nicknamed "The King of the Kippax" (the Kippax being Manchester City's terraced stand renowned for its singing), Bell is widely described as City's greatest ever player. He was the inspirational player in the most successful Manchester City side ever. He was part of the famous trio of the late 60s and early 70s alongside Francis Lee and Mike Summerbee.

He made his debut for Manchester City in 1966 after signing from Bury, and would stay with the club until 1979. When trying to sign him for Manchester City, Assistant Manager Malcolm Allison attempted to dissuade other parties by claiming Bell "can't head it, can't pass it, he's hopeless". This worked as Bell signed for City despite interest from other clubs. He appeared for England in the 1970 World Cup and won 48 caps, making him the most cappped City player ever, although City fans claim he should have won more.

Tragically, in 1975 at the age of 29, he was injured against Manchester United by Martin Buchan during a League Cup match at Maine Road. He attempted a return in 1977, but called time on a magical career in 1979 having never recaptured the form which guided Manchester City to the 1968 League Title, 1969 FA Cup, 1970 League Cup and 1970 Cup Winners' Cup.

He continued his service with the Maine Road club by working with the youth team, but left before returning during the '90s as an ambassador. In 2004 the West Stand at Manchester City's new stadium, The City of Manchester Stadium, was renamed the "Colin Bell Stand" in honour of their greatest ever player. This is a unique honour, as the East, North and South stands all remain nameless, although one of the roads leading to the stadium is called "Joe Mercer Way" in honour of Manchester City's most successful and greatest ever manager.