Matt Dannatt

Matt Dannatt started his playing career by following in the footsteps of his father Ken, by starring for his junior village team: Keelby United FC. In a season fraught by injuries, Matt notched a healhty total of goals. This form saw Dannatt earn a lucrative move to two-time Grimsby and Cleethorpes Intermediate Soccer league champions; Progressive Blackrow FC. Unfortunately for Matt, Blackrow were not so progressive in his first season at the club and later that year, club and player parted ways with Matt moving on again to local side West Lindsey FC. Under the managerial stewardship of ex-Grimsby town frontman Phil Nicholls, West Lindsey won the league and cup double. During his time with the club, Matt was scouted by local semi proffesional outfit - Louth United FC. Matt enjoyed two sucessful and injury free seasons at Park Avenue, until a Calcaneofibular ligament tear cut short the third. Matt was forced to retire from the game for what would turn out to be a total of three years. During this time, Matt kept involved in the game by completing his level one and two FA Coaching badges. Matt took his first managerial role at the club at which his illustrious career had begun, Keelby United FC, guiding their under 16's team to their highest finish in 8 years. Matt took his first tentative steps back into playing with Holton le Clay FC until in January this year, Matt was approached to take a player manager position at newly formed Viva Futbol outfit, Total Sport FC. Big things are expected of the team, and in football, anything can happen. But one thing is for certain, Matt's time with Total Sport FC will be another colourful chapter in this footballing journeyman's fledgling career.

Profile by David Custis
SPORTS EDITOR, THE TIMES