On this day [8 June]: Tony Woodcock joined Arsenal from FC Cologne

On 8 June 1982, Tony Woodcock joined Arsenal from German Side 1 FC Cologne according to the Official Club website.

Born Antony Stewart Woodcock in Eastwood, Nottinghamshire in 1955, Tony launched his professional career with his local side Nottingham Forest at the age of 18. Although he stayed at Forest from 1973 to 1979, he had loan spells at Lincoln City and Doncaster Rovers in 1976 and 1977 respectively.

Following his unpremeditated switch to FC Cologne after an illustrious career at Forest- that included a European Cup triumph in 1979- Tony Woodcock returned to England, but this time moving to the nation’s capital to play for the Gunners.

The move to Highbury materialised after the Bundesliga outfit accepted a £500,000 quote from Terry Neill’s side. According to Arsenal.com, Tony Woodcock quickly cemented in place in the team, becoming the club’s top scorer for the next four seasons.

During his four year reign he made a total of 169 appearances, scoring 68 goals. Tony was however sold back to the Bundesliga unceremoniously after the newly appointed George Graham considered him as a liability due to a nasty injury.

He officially retired from football in 1990.

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