Graham Paddon

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Graham Charles Paddon (24 August 1950 – 19 November 2007) was an English footballer who played as a left‑sided midfielder. Known for his creative play, surging runs, a powerful left foot, and a long throw, he built a strong reputation at several clubs.

Paddon began as an apprentice with Coventry City and made his First Division debut in 1969. After a few appearances he joined Norwich City in 1969 for £25,000. At Norwich, he helped the team win promotion in 1971–72 and reach the 1973 League Cup Final, scoring in key ties along the way. He moved to West Ham United in December 1973 for £170,000, becoming their then most expensive signing. He played a major role in West Ham’s early 1970s success, including all games in the 1974–75 FA Cup campaign, and scored in the final against Fulham as West Ham won 2–0. He also contributed to the club’s European campaign, before leaving in 1976.

Paddon returned to Norwich City in 1976 for £110,000 but suffered a broken leg early in his comeback. He recovered to captain the side during their time in the top division. He spent time abroad with the Tampa Bay Rowdies in 1978 and had a loan spell at Millwall in 1981–82. Later, he played for Eastern AA in Hong Kong and finished his career with Alfreton Town.

Internationally, Paddon made one England Under-23 appearance in 1976, scoring in a 3–1 win over Hungary, while being allowed as an over-age player for the match.

After retiring as a player, Paddon moved into coaching and management. He worked on Portsmouth’s staff and then joined Stoke City as Alan Ball’s assistant, serving as caretaker manager in 1991 after Ball’s sacking. He later returned to Portsmouth, worked as a scout for Derby County, Liverpool, and Leicester City, and in 2003 joined Brunei’s DPMM FC to coach their team in the Brunei Premier League.

Graham Paddon died of a heart attack at his home in Norfolk on 19 November 2007, aged 57.