Graham Shaw

Graham Paul Shaw (born 7 June 1967) is an English former footballer and politician who made nearly 300 appearances in the Football League playing for Stoke City, Preston North End, Plymouth Argyle and Rochdale between 1985 and 1996.

In 2026 he was elected as a Reform UK Councillor in Borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Playing career

Stoke City Shaw was born in Newcastle-under-Lyme and signed on professional terms for local side Stoke City in June 1985 after progressing through the youth ranks at the Victoria Ground. Stoke went on to lose the replay 1–0. Shaw scored six goals in 33 games in the 1988–89 season before being surprisingly sold by Mick Mills to Third Division Preston North End for £70,000.

Rochdale In March 1995, Rochdale signed Shaw on a free transfer. In little over a season, Shaw played 28 games for the club, scoring just two goals and was released in May 1996.

After football Shaw considered coaching but after much deliberation decided to go to Staffordshire University and study criminal law. With the help of the PFA's education fund passed his final exams to become a fully qualified criminal lawyer. After working for a firm in Stoke-on-Trent for five years he now practices in Newcastle-Under-Lyme as a commercial sports solicitor. In August 2010 prospective Port Vale investor Mike Newton revealed his plans to install Shaw as Chief Executive of the club.

At the 2026 Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council election, Shaw was elected as the Reform UK councillor for the Knutton ward.

Career statistics Source:

Honours Stoke City Football League Second Division champions: 1992–93