On 26 May 1964 Mancunian Mike Doyle signed professional forms for Manchester City. He embodied a spirit and determination as a player that brought great success and the loyal support of City fans. He was a vital member of two successful periods at Maine Road, and had managed to bridge the gap between Mercer and Allison’s great team of the late 60s and Book’s mid-70s entertainers. In fact he was also there for the miserable period that predated Mercer’s arrival!
Doyle joined the City groundstaff in May 1962 and made his debut in the 2-2 draw at Cardiff on 12 March 1965 and appeared in 6 games during the latter end of a traumatic season. That summer Mercer & Allison arrived and transformed the Blues with Doyle playing a leading role in every City triumph of the period. In fact, until recent years he shared the distinction with Tommy Booth of appearing in more finals than any other City player. He appeared in ECWC, FA Cup and 3 League Cup finals but also played his part in the League title success in 1968 and Second Division title in 1966. He even captained City to their 1976 League Cup triumph and scored in the 1970 victory.
Ever the determined player City fans loved his fighting spirit and never say die attitude. Significantly, in an era of major talent and success, Doyle was voted City’s player of the year twice (1971 & 1974). After making five appearances for England and over 550 competitive first team appearances for the Blues he moved to Stoke in 1978, where he was voted their player of the year in 1979, and later had spells at Bolton and Rochdale.
Mike Doyle was a tremendous City player who played in a determined manner. He won many admirers with his total dedication to the Blue cause. He died on 27 June 2011.
Gary James' Football Archive 