Paul Linwood


Paul Anthony Linwood is an English footballer who plays as a central defender with Trafford.
He has previously played for Tranmere Rovers, Wrexham, Chester City, Grimsby Town and Fleetwood Town.

Career

Tranmere Rovers

Born in Birkenhead, Linwood was educated in Wirral at Hilbre High School. Linwood was with hometown club Tranmere Rovers from 2002 to 2006, having been a trainee previously. He made his first-team debut in a Football League Trophy tie at Blackpool in October 2003, with his Football League debut following a few days later in a 2–1 win over Oldham Athletic. Linwood spent the start of the 2005–2006 season on loan to Wrexham, before enjoying a short spell back in the Tranmere first-team.

Chester City

In the summer of 2006 he opted to join neighbours Chester City, with a £15,000 transfer fee set at tribunal. He made his Chester debut as the Blues beat Accrington Stanley on 5 August 2006, the club he would score his first league goal for Chester against later in the season. He also found the net in a Football League Trophy tie at Chesterfield during the campaign. As he became an established figure at the Deva Stadium, he was voted the Chester City's player of the season for 2007–08. He was named the official captain after a contract dispute involving fellow defender Paul Butler, a role he maintained during the 2008–09 campaign. The season saw him score twice in 43 league matches as the club suffered relegation from The Football League.

Grimsby Town

On 3 July 2009, Linwood signed a three-year contract at League Two side Grimsby Town. Grimsby manager Mike Newell had been impressed with Linwood's performances for his former club Chester whilst playing against Grimsby in the previous season. Despite a glowing reference from his new boss, Linwood found himself playing second fiddle to the preferred centre half pairing of Ryan Bennett and Robert Atkinson, this was until Bennett was sold which allowed Linwood an extended run in the first team, until the club opted to sign Olly Lancashire on loan.
On 12 May 2010, Linwood was one of seven players placed on the transfer list by manager Neil Woods after their relegation from the Football League.

Fleetwood Town

On 29 June 2010 Linwood signed a 3-year deal with newly promoted Conference Premier side Fleetwood Town. He was released by the club in May 2012.

Chester

On 30 May 2012 he returned to the city of Chester to play for newly promoted Conference North side Chester. Linwood previously played for Chester City before their demise in 2010. Linwood scored his first goal for the club in the 2–0 home win over Oxford City.

Salford City

In the summer of 2014 he moved to Salford City. He made his club debut in the opening league match of the season on 16 August as Salford beat Scarborough 4–1.

Honours

Chester City
Chester FC
Salford City