90 seconds with Kevin ‘Hitchy’ Hitchcock

Kevin Hitchcock enjoyed a distinguished career as a goalkeeper, primarily known for his time at Chelsea Football Club. Hitchcock began his professional career at Nottingham Forest in 1983 although he never made a first team appearance for the Reds, his professional debut came soon after whilst on loan at Mansfield Town and following a successful spell at Field Mill, he made the move permanently to the Stags where he spent four years.

In March 1988, he made his move to Stamford Bridge in a £250k deal and his tenure at Chelsea spanned between 1988 to 2001. In his first full season as a squad player at Chelsea he helped the blues secure promotion to the First Division as Second Division champions. He would also be part of the squad that reached the FA Cup final in 1994. Hitchcock’s agility, shot-stopping abilities, and commanding presence in the penalty area earned him admiration among Chelsea supporters. Despite facing stiff competition from other goalkeepers during his time at the club, including the likes of Dmitri Kharine and Ed de Goey, Hitchcock remained a reliable figure between the posts.

After leaving Chelsea in 2001, Hitchcock continued his career as a goalkeeper coach. He worked with several clubs, where he served as a goalkeeper coach for many years. His expertise in coaching helped nurture the talents of numerous goalkeepers, contributing to their development and success on the pitch. Throughout his career, Kevin Hitchcock exemplified dedication, professionalism, and resilience, both as a player and as a coach. His contributions to Chelsea and the broader football community have left a lasting legacy, earning him a place of honour among the footballing fraternity.

90 seconds, 11 Q&A with Kevin Hitchcock:-

1) Childhood team growing up? West Ham United.
2) First pair of football boots owned? A pair of Mitre.
3) Did you have a nickname in the dressing room and how did you get it? Hitchy – for obvious reasons.
4) Favourite teammate? Too many to mention but my top three would be Chelsea legends Gianluca Vialli, Dennis Wise and Gianfranco Zola.
5) Toughest opponent? It would probably have to be Alan Shearer.
6) Which player do you wish you’d had the chance to play with? West Ham United’s Billy Bonds
7) Favourite football shirt you’ve played in? The purple Umbro Commodore Chelsea keepers shirt from the 90’s.
8) Best stadium for atmosphere? I’d have to say Anfield.
9) Biggest influence on your career? Mansfield Town manager Ian Greaves.
10) Most prized possessions from your playing days? My medals.
11) What keeps you busy these days? Coaching in the MLS with New England Revolution.