‘I’m over the blue moon to get my medal at last!’
EX-CITY STARS FINALLY RECEIVE HONOURS FOR PART IN CLUB’S 1967-68 TITLE-WINNING SEASON
FOUR former Manchester City players have finally been awarded medals in recognition of their contribution to the club’s 1967-68 titlewinning season.
Stan Horne, Paul Hince, Bobby Kennedy and the late Harry Dowd did not receive medals due to a smaller allocation being awarded by the Football League in those days.
City finished two points clear of Manchester
United that season under the combined management of Joe Mercer and Malcolm Allison and the club’s request to the EFL for the medals to be awarded was approved in January 2021.
The 9ct yellow gold medals are exact replicas of those presented to their teammates at the end of the 1967-68 season.
Horne, Kennedy and the sons of Hince - who became a sports journalist at the Manchester Evening News after his playing career - and Dowd received the accolades during half-time at City’s Premier League victory against Burnley on Saturday.
Former midfielder Horne, who made five league appearances for City that season to become the first black footballer to win the English Football League, said: “We are all absolutely ecstatic. “When the letter came that I was going to receive this medal, I was absolutely overjoyed, over the blue moon as you might say. “It was a fantastic time, playing with some of the best players of that era. The families of the four of us are so proud, you cannot describe it. I cannot dream of anything better”.
Born in Clanfield, Oxfordshire, Horne signed with City in 1965, where he stayed until 1969, and was the first black player at the club.
Given that October is Black History Month, the timing feels extra special for Horne.
He continued: “It’s just incredible, being a part of history. I hope it inspires other people to do the same.”
Stan, who still lives in the Greater Manchester area, has three children and five grandchildren.
“Every day I was at City was a highlight. There were some days that were better than others, obviously,” he added.
“But I thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s sad that I had to leave City when I did but circumstances prevailed and it was time to move on. City is still my number one club. I’m a big fan”.
Current manager Pep Guardiola added: “Stan, Paul, Bobby and Harry played a role in the history of Manchester City.
“They helped the club win the league and it is so fitting that they are recognised.
“I want to send a huge congratulations to all the guys and their families”.
The families of the four of us are so proud. I cannot dream of anything better
City title winner Stan Horne