Mike O'Hara

Mike O'Hara

Michael (Mike) John O’HARA

Mike became the Hatter’s youngest ever player at 16 years 32 days when he was forced to turn out in goal in a 0-3 defeat at Stoke in October 1960. The Town had lost England international Ron Baynham to a fractured skull the previous week and with reserve Alan Collier recovering from a broken arm there was little choice.

The young Irishman had been playing junior football in Coventry when he asked the Town for a trial, which was successful, and he signed apprentice forms leading up to his sudden elevation.

Mike made one more League appearance plus two in the League Cup before the Town signed the experienced Jim Standen. A move to Swindon saw more first team action before he emigrated to Australia where he still lives.