Biography:

Michael Doyle was born 25^th November 1946 in Ashton. The son of a policeman, Mike played for Stockport boys as a junior before joining Manchester City in May 1962. Mike played at both youth and senior levels initially playing in a wing half position followed by several appearances as a forward. Later in his career, he moved to a central defence position.  

Former teammate Dennis Tueart once commented that Mike Doyle was a born winner and the career he had with City certainly lives up to that description. A key piece of the jigsaw in the great City team Joe Mercer and Malcolm Allison assembled in the late 1960’s and 1970’s the honours, both Mike and the team won speak volumes.

Known for his tough physical tackling and no-nonsense approach, all games he participated in certainly supported the team’s success. This style of play was possibly influenced by his father who enrolled him into Police self-defence classes as a youngster.

A local lad, Mike had blue blood in his veins, terrace supporters saw and celebrated him as one of their own. His passion and commitment were called upon on many occasions, especially for Manchester Derbies.

On one occasion a national newspaper received a death threat asking Mike not to play in a Manchester Derby at Old Trafford. The police were informed, and Mike was put under 24hr police protection for the days leading up to the game, Mike was resolute that he was going to play the match - and of course, City won the game.

Notable facts/stories:

Mike’s son Scott Doyle is married to Charlotte, daughter of former teammate Glynn Pardoe.

Mike’s grandson Tommy Doyle plays for Manchester City receiving his first-team debut at the end of the 2019/20 season. Tommy has represented the England U-17 and U-16 national teams.

Non-City career (briefly):

After 16 years at City Mike moved to Stoke City for £50,000 becoming their player of the season in 1979. This was followed by stays at Bolton Wanderers and Rochdale before retiring in 1984.

After retiring, he took on various salesman positions and continued to attend Manchester City games on a regular basis.

Sadly, Mike died on the 27^th June 2011 at the age of 64, leaving four children and six grandchildren.