Asa Hartford (Caretaker Manager)

Born: Clydebank, 24th October 1950

26th August - 7th October 1996

Former player Asa Hartford was given the task of managing the Blues on a caretaker basis following Ball’s departure. Anticipated to be in the role for only a couple of games, Hartford went on to guide the Blues for six League games and two League Cup matches against Third Division Lincoln City (ending in a 5-1 aggregate defeat). Hartford did have previous experience of management at Stockport and Shrewsbury, but he was clearly not seen as City’s long term replacement. During his reign George Graham had claimed he wanted the job, then Dave Bassett accepted it but changed his mind, meanwhile Hartford tried to focus on the role. After the appointment of Coppell, Hartford reverted to coaching roles at the Club. Remaining with City until 2005.

All history and statistical material has been produced based on the research and writing of Manchester football historian Gary James (www.facebook.com/GaryJames4). It is maintained by Ric Turner & Gary James. All text remains the copyright of the original contributors.

Gary's book, Manchester - the City Years: Tracing the Story of Manchester City from the 1860s to the Modern Day, is available to order on Amazon.