Simon Mills

Simon Ashley Mills (born 16 August 1964) is an English former footballer who played as a defender; he was described by Jeff Kent as "skilful and adaptable". However, he failed to earn a first-team spot at Hillsborough, particularly following the "Owls" ascent to the First Division in 1983–84 under Howard Wilkinson's stewardship. He felt that he did not suit Wilkinson's style of football.

York City Mills moved on to York City in June 1985 after manager Denis Smith spotted him playing reserve team football. York went on to finish in the relegation places in 1987–88.

Port Vale Unable to fit him into the side due to the form of Ray Walker and others, Rudge converted Mills from a midfielder to a right-back. He made 19 Third Division appearances in 1987–88, scoring five goals, including one in a 3–2 comeback win over former club York. He commentated for BBC Radio Stoke at the 1993 Football League Trophy final. He was an excellent set piece taker and part of Port Vale's "MBE" corner kick routine: Mills to Darren Beckford to Robbie Earle. In December 2025, supporters voted him onto the all-time Port Vale XI on the club's official website.

Later life Mills became a drayman at a Sheffield brewery after leaving football and attempted to start a business selling second-hand fishing gear.

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1982–83 Second Division

1983–84 Second Division

1984–85 First Division

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1985–86 Third Division

1986–87 Third Division

1987–88 Third Division

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1987–88 Third Division

1988–89 Third Division

1989–90 Second Division

1990–91 Second Division

1991–92 Second Division

1992–93 Second Division

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1994–95 Northern Premier LeaguePremier Division

1995–96 Northern Premier LeaguePremier Division

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Honours Port Vale Football League Third Division play-offs: 1989

Individual York City Clubman of the Year: 1985–86