Des Walker

Former England football player turned coach, Des Walker has made his mark on the football world and is now joining the after-dinner speakers' circuit to share his wisdom on a variety of topics. From achieving peak performance to teamwork, leadership and mental resilience, Walker has proven to be a highly popular speaker for both sporting and business audiences.

The football legend, known for his devastating pace and impressive skills as a central defender, spent the first eight years of his club career with Nottingham Forest FC. He was first signed as an apprentice in 1980 and won his first club player of the year award in 1987. The team won a total of five out of the seven domestic cup finals in only five seasons, with Walker contributing to each one.

After a short transfer to U.C. Sampdoria in Italy, Des returned to the UK to play for Sheffield Wednesday FC. He made over 300 appearances in the eight years that he played for them and became very popular with the fans. He was voted player of the year in his first season and eventually became captain of The Owls. Alongside Peter Swan, Walker was announced the best ever centre-back for Sheffield Wednesday in 2007.

To end his club career, Des made a return to Nottingham Forest. He made nearing 60 appearances in his two-year second stint at the club and then briefly become their first-team coach.

Having also enjoyed a highly successful international career, Walker was part of The England Men's Senior Football Team that reached the semi-finals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup. He also became the fastest English player in history to reach 50 international caps during the Euro 1992, playing in 50 of England’s previous 53 internationals.

As an award-winning team player, Walker amassed a great deal of knowledge surrounding effective teamwork during his lengthy football career. An ideal speaker for businesses and sports teams alike, Des shares incredible tips and tricks to improve the performance of any type of team. Also an experienced captain, Des has a proven track record and what it takes to influence management teams to become effective leaders. A versatile and highly-regarded after-dinner speaker, Walker is guaranteed to make an impression at any corporate event or function.