Paul Simpson’s journey through his career, both as a player and coach, showcases a story filled with remarkable resilience and dedication to football. Diagnosed with kidney cancer in the summer of 2021, Simpson faced a personal battle that forced him into isolation for two-and-a-half weeks before undergoing surgery. Despite the diagnosis, Simpson didn’t feel physically ill, highlighting the stealth of his condition. His recovery journey was made easier by the immense support he received from family, friends, and former players, with daily messages lifting his spirits.
At the time of his diagnosis, Simpson was assistant head coach at Bristol City, and his players made a concerted effort to send encouraging messages throughout his isolation period. Simpson, touched by their gestures, emphasized how much this simple act of kindness meant to him. Even footballers he had worked with previously, such as Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah, reached out to check on him.
The surgery to remove the tumor from Simpson’s kidney was successful, and he was given the all-clear. His wide network of well-wishers was a testament to his reputation and influence in football, particularly his role in guiding England’s Under-20 team to World Cup glory in 2017.
Simpson’s playing career was no less storied. Having started with Manchester City, he played over 150 games, benefiting from the mentorship of club legends like Tony Book and Glyn Pardoe. His football education shaped him for future success, both on and off the pitch.
After successful stints with clubs like Derby County and Oxford United, Simpson joined Wolves in the late 1990s. While his time at Wolves was marked by inconsistency and near-misses for promotion, he still contributed notable moments, such as a memorable long-range goal against Swindon. Despite feeling that he didn’t fully deliver his best during his Wolves tenure, Simpson maintained deep respect for the club and its passionate fan base.
After retiring, Simpson transitioned into management, where he experienced the highs of guiding Carlisle United and Preston North End to significant milestones. His return to Carlisle in 2022, where he rescued them from relegation and signed a three-year contract to build on that success, is just another chapter in his enduring footballing legacy.
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