Paul Needham

Paul Needham (born 15 June 1961, Buxton) is an English former professional footballer who played as a full back. He made more than 50 appearances in The Football League for Chester.

Playing career Although born in Buxton, Needham grew up in Chester and attended Upton-by-Chester High School in the city. He joined Chester as an apprentice aged 16 after first appearing for their youth side 18 months earlier.

Needham's professional debut followed as a substitute for Richie Gendall in a 1–0 defeat at Oxford United on 15 November 1980, with his first start made in the number two shirt in a 1–0 victory at Fulham on 17 March 1981. Going into 1981–82, Needham was one of just 14 professionals in the Chester side as the wage bill was cut. The side finished adrift at the foot of Division Three and were relegated, although Needham enjoyed his first taste of regular football by making 27 league appearances and scoring his only goal for the club against Reading.

Needham then joined non-league side Oswestry Town. He did not play professionally again.