15th July 1930

Salford, Lancashire

Full-Back

An under-rated player who appeared at both left-back and right-back Brian Doyle played for Exeter City between 1954 and 1957. He joined the club from Stoke City and moved on to Bristol Rovers. He later managed Workington and Stockport County as well as holding several coaching positions in the Middle East and Finland. 

Starting his career with Lostock Gralam of the Mid-Cheshire League, and having had short spells with Manchester City, Witton Albion and Winsford United, Brian signed a professional contract with Stoke City in March 1951 and went on to make 17 league appearances for the Potters.

Declining an offer from Bristol City, and being advised that a move to Devon may ease his bronchial problems, Brian signed for Exeter City in April 1954 and made his debut against Crystal Palace at St James’ Park in August 1954. Appearing in 39 league games in his first season, he followed through with 33 league games in 1955/56 before City turned down a player-exchange offer from Brentford for Brian's services in November 1956. Often playing basketball in Exeter to maintain fitness, Brian made a further 28 league appearances prior to signing for Bristol Rovers in August 1957 having refused an earlier offer from Yeovil Town.

Once again he stayed for three seasons making a total of 43 league appearances before chronic nasal trouble forced his retirement. After coaching with Carlisle United, Brian was appointed manager of Workington in July 1968 and remained in post until March 1971. A spell as a coach with Blackpool followed ahead of a return to management with Stockport County between March 1972 and May 1974.

Brian then worked as a coach with Leeds United before managing Al Nasr (Kuwait) and later acting as a consultant to Luton Town. After coaching in Bahrain for a year, he guided Rovaniemen Palloseura (RoPS) to a Finnish Cup win in 1986 which was followed by another stint with Al Nasr. 

Retiring from football in 1990, Brian returned to live in Lytham St Annes where he died in December 1992.

Exeter City league games only

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