Martin Chivers: Former Spurs and England forward dies aged 80
Former Tottenham Hotspur and England striker Martin Chivers has died at the age of 80, his family has confirmed.
Chivers, one of the most prolific goalscorers in Tottenham’s history, remains an iconic figure at the club after a glittering career that spanned the 1960s and 1970s. He scored 174 goals in 367 appearances for Spurs, placing him among the club’s all-time greats.
Born in Southampton in 1945, Chivers joined Tottenham from Southampton in 1968 and quickly established himself as a feared centre-forward. Known for his powerful left foot, aerial ability and instinctive finishing, he became the focal point of Spurs’ attack during one of the club’s most successful eras.
His most famous achievement came in 1972, when he played a key role in Tottenham winning the UEFA Cup, scoring twice in the final against Wolverhampton Wanderers. That season, he finished as the competition’s top scorer, underlining his reputation as one of Europe’s most dangerous forwards.
Chivers also lifted the League Cup in 1971 and 1973, and was Tottenham’s leading scorer for six consecutive seasons between 1969 and 1975.
At international level, Chivers won 24 caps for England, scoring 13 goals. His England career was curtailed by injury, but he is still remembered for his clinical finishing and strong partnership with some of the era’s finest players.
A serious knee injury in 1976 ultimately ended his top-level career earlier than expected. Despite this, his impact on English football remained profound, and he later became an ambassador for Tottenham, regularly appearing at club events and maintaining a close bond with supporters.
Tottenham Hotspur paid tribute to Chivers, describing him as “a true legend of our club whose legacy will never be forgotten.”
Tributes have also poured in from former teammates, fans and across the football world, remembering not only his goals, but his humility and dedication to the game.
Martin Chivers is survived by his family. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course.
