We are saddened to learn of the passing of former Walsall midfielder Mick Bates, who has died at the age of 73.
Doncaster-born Bates began his footballing career as an apprentice with Leeds United, where he would rise through the ranks to make over one hundred and eighty appearances, scoring nine goals, including one against Juventus in the 2–2 first leg of the Fairs Cup Final of 1971 away in Turin.
After more than fourteen years with Leeds, which included two First Division titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups, Mick joined the Saddlers in the summer of 1976, for a fee reported to be in the region of £25,000.
After two seasons and eighty-five league appearances for the Fellows Park Saddlers, Bates went on to enjoy spells with Bradford City and his hometown team of Doncaster Rovers before hanging up his boots in 1981.
Along with his various league and cup medals, Bates was part of the Leeds team which went on to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Leeds by Leeds City Council as a part of the club's 2019 Centenary celebrations.
We would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Mick's family, friends, and fans during this sad time.
Doncaster-born Bates began his footballing career as an apprentice with Leeds United, where he would rise through the ranks to make over one hundred and eighty appearances, scoring nine goals, including one against Juventus in the 2–2 first leg of the Fairs Cup Final of 1971 away in Turin.
After more than fourteen years with Leeds, which included two First Division titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups, Mick joined the Saddlers in the summer of 1976, for a fee reported to be in the region of £25,000.
After two seasons and eighty-five league appearances for the Fellows Park Saddlers, Bates went on to enjoy spells with Bradford City and his hometown team of Doncaster Rovers before hanging up his boots in 1981.
Along with his various league and cup medals, Bates was part of the Leeds team which went on to be awarded the Freedom of the City of Leeds by Leeds City Council as a part of the club's 2019 Centenary celebrations.
We would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Mick's family, friends, and fans during this sad time.