Mike Barrett

Michael John Barrett (12 September 1959 – 14 August 1984) was an English professional footballer who played as a winger for Bristol Rovers from 1979 until his death in 1984.

Early life Barrett was born in Bristol and was a pupil at St Bede's Catholic College until 1978. After leaving school he had a trial with Bristol City, but was not offered a professional contract, leading him to play non-League football in Bristol for Shirehampton Sports.

Career In 1979, Barrett earned a chance with a Football League side when he was signed by Bristol Rovers, but it was some time before he established himself as a first team regular, making just three appearances in his first season with The Pirates. In all he played in 129 League games for Rovers, scoring 18 goals in his five seasons there.

Barrett had struggled with fitness during a training session in 1984, and after being taken to hospital for tests he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He died just two weeks later on 14 August 1984 at the age of 24,