Kevin Beattie: Historic pictures from Ipswich Town legend’s career

Kevin Beattie receives presents alongside Bobby Robson in 1982 Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

The Beat was signed to Ipswich Town Football Club by Bobby Robson at the age of 15. Ron Gray, the chief scout at Ipswich Town, was told by Robson: “If you miss him, you’ve lost your job”.

Beattie spent most of his career at Ipswich Town and during his time at the club the team won the FA cup and the UEFA cup.

He was named the FA’s Young Player of the Year in 1972-73.

Beattie not only played for Ipswich but he played for England as well, in the under-23 team and then the first team.

Kevin Beattie alongside team-mate Allan Hunter Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

Robson described him as the best England player he had ever seen.

Good friends Beattie and Allan Hunter played together at ITFC and he described Kevin as being “in the same class as George Best”.

Beattie made 296 appearances for the club, and is still known as one of the most thought after players at ITFC.

Kevin Beattie's testimonial match at Portman Road in 1982 Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

Brian Talbot is one step ahead of Arsenal's Alan Hudson in the FA Cup Final. Kevin Beattie is nearby. A year later, Talbot was a cup winner again - this time with Arsenal Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

Kevin Beattie waves to the crowd at Wembley in 1978 Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

Ipswich Towns Kevin Beattie in 1977 Picture: OWEN HINES (Image: Owen Hines)