Clayton Blackmore

Former Welsh footballer Clayton Blackmore is best known for his illustrious career with Manchester United between 1982-1994. A combative player who was renowned for his piercing free kicks, Clayton was one of the most versatile players in the top division of English football, playing equally well in midfield and up front as he did as part of the back four.

Blackmore is a highly regarded football speaker, delivering anecdotal tales of his time as a professional football as well as what it takes to stay a prominent figure in such a competitive environment, a skill comparable to those required in the business and social environments.

Joining Manchester United as a schoolboy aged 14, Clayton first experienced success at an elite level by becoming a youth cup finalist in 1982. Debuting for United in May 1984 against Nottingham Forest at The City Ground, Clayton didn’t get his big break for the club until 1987, where the new manager Alex Ferguson played Clayton 22 times, allowing him to score three goals for the club in that period. Blackmore’s strong performances allowed him to become a permanent fixture in the team, with Clayton playing 28 times for the club in the 1988—1989 season. Clayton went on to success with Manchester United, winning the FA Cup in 1990, a European Cup medal in 1991 and the Premier League in 1993.

Amongst a number of topics, maintaining peak performance and maximising success make up Clayton’s talks as an after dinner speaker. Blackmore has experienced elite competition as well as overcoming adversity to gain promotion with Middlesborough in 1995. Clayton’s articulation and eloquence as a football speaker make him one of the most desirable personalities of event and awards ceremonies on the after dinner circuit.

Clayton has also experienced football from the touchline by managing Bangor City and Porthmadog in 2006 and 2007. Featuring a rounded portfolio of knowledge in sport, Clayton understands the importance of leadership and teamwork in any competitive environment. An ideal sports speaker to provide a motivational speech or to participate in a question and answer session, Blackmore engages with guests and leaves listeners inspired to perform in their own lives.

We sat down with Clayton and fellow former footballer Harry Redknapp, to discuss their predictions for the 2016 England vs Wales Euro match, in our exclusive interview.