Scunthorpe United is saddened to learn of the passing of former player Rod Fletcher, at the age of 78.
Born in Preston, Lancashire, he played for Nelson in the Lancashire Combination before turning professional with Leeds United in 1962.
After two years playing for their junior side, he began a teacher training course. He would make his debut in the Football League for Crewe Alexandra in his final year.
His first teaching post would be near Grimsby, and Fletcher would sign for Lincoln City on a part-time basis. He would net regularly for the reserves and would eventually break into the first team towards the end of the 1968-69 season. Fast forward through the next campaign and he would play every game for the Imps, emerging as top goalscorer with 17 goals in all competitions.
Fletcher would end up being Kevin Keegan's replacement at the Old Show Ground, signing for Scunthorpe in 1971 for a £3,000 fee. He would still combine his playing and teaching exploits, but would be an ever-present in his debut season, with his 19 goals assisting the Iron to promotion to Division Three, finishing fourth.
United would struggle in the season that followed, and were relegated straight back to Division Four, but Fletcher would still be the club's top goalscorer with 10 goals.
In total, he would make 98 appearances, scoring 30 goals for Scunthorpe.
After leaving the club, he would transfer to Grimsby Town, featuring for two seasons, before playing local level football with Immingham Town, where he also managed, and Louth Town.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends at this sad time.