Smethurst, Derek

Derek Smethurst

Clubs played for: Chelsea, Millwall (1970-1974).

Born: 1947

Birthplace: Durban, South Africa

Position: Forward

Biography: Signed by Dave Sexton as a permit player when he left university in December 1968 and spent two seasons in the reserves. Having proved to be an able back up to Peter Osgood and Ian Hutchinson, he signed a professional deal in January 1971 after he completed a two year residency requirement. Played his part in the Cup Winners' Cup Final success later that season but was surprisingly sold to Millwall the following September for £35,000. Now involved with Youth Soccer in Florida and runs his own academy. Is a born again Christian after experiencing a vision whilst watching television in San Diego in 1978. Has a daughter called Chelsea!

Do you have any interesting, happy, or humorous memories of Derek?
If so, please let us know and we will be happy to share them with the world!

Smethurst , Derek This is something from Derek himself in response to a question on FB how many games he played for Chelsea: 19 games - started the 1st three games of the 71-72 season and asked for a transfer - the club had decided to not pay their two youngest players John Phillips and myself half the bonus money due us for winning the European Cup Winners Cup in which John (goalkeeper) and myself were instrumental in getting Chelsea to the final. One scored and the other was brilliant in goal. After that I had given the coach Sexton a mouthful - being SA Irish I unloaded on him in front of poor old John who I think witnessed his life going before him in a second - at that point I had decided to leave - went to Millwall (stay in London) and received the bonus and much more to boot - I ended up near to the salary Peter Osgood was getting lol . That's the history of it and life went on.