Jeff Chandler

Jeffrey George Chandler (born 19 June 1959) is a former professional footballer who played as a midfielder, making over 300 appearances in the Football League. Born in England, he won two caps for the Republic of Ireland. He began his career as an apprentice with Blackpool and went on to break into the first-team before joining First Division side Leeds United in 1979 for a fee of £100,000. He spent two seasons with Leeds before moving to Bolton Wanderers in 1981. He later played for Derby County, Mansfield Town and Cardiff City before retiring due to a severe knee injury.

Club career Blackpool Born in Hammersmith in London, Chandler had represented the West London schoolboys team when he was spotted by Dave Johnston, son of former England international Harry Johnston, who was working as a teacher at Chandler's school Rutherford in London. His teacher recommended him to Blackpool, who offered him a spot as an apprentice before eventually handing him his first professional contract in August 1976.

Bolton had been relegated to the Fourth Division for the first time in their history but went on to win promotion at the first attempt after finishing third during the 1987–88 season. However, Chandler played little part in the success, having suffered a serious knee injury after falling awkwardly whilst jumping to head a ball in only his fourth game of the season, a League Cup tie against Wigan Athletic.

He joined Cardiff City in November 1989 for a fee of £15,000 but, after appearing in just 28 games for the Bluebirds, he was forced to retire due to a knee injury in December 1990.

International career Eligible to represent the Republic of Ireland via his parentage, He made his debut for the senior side on 29 September 1979 as a substitute before being handed his first start one month later on 29 October,

Later life Following his retirement from football, Chandler worked in a number of different professions including advertising and as a double glazing salesman. He later worked in a care home for five years and obtained a diploma in counselling in his spare time. After working alongside youth offenders in Preston, he became a pupil welfare officer in Blackpool.