In the mid-1960s, I watched a number of mid-week matches not involving City at the likes of Stockport, Bury, Oldham, and Bolton.
After winning promotion in 1966 and consolidating in 1967, it was apparent that City lacked a top-class centre forward. Derek Kevan had gone and age was catching up on Jimmy Murray while Ralph Brand never really settled. City even tried Mike Doyle at number 9 for an extended run.
Francis Lee was the obvious choice but Bolton were not prepared to listen to offers. Lee had built up his bog roll business and was financially independent. He basically threaten to go on strike to force through the move to City. Bolton realised he wasn’t bluffing and sanction the transfer to City. The rest is history until Swales appeared to force him out of the club.
When my son was born in 1981, Francis was my choice for a name. My wife was hesitant until I suggested Kazimierz as an alternative. So Francis it was. He is a City supporter to this day despite having lived his life mostly in Edinburgh and now in London.
