David Platt (1966)

David Andrew Platt is an English former footballer who played at both professional and international levels as a midfielder. He is currently a coach at Manchester City under manager Roberto Mancini.

Born in in Chadderton, Lancashire, Platt began his career as an apprentice at Manchester United but later moved to Crewe Alexandra where he began building a reputation as a goal scoring midfield player. In 1988, aged 22, he signed for Aston Villa and in 1989 he gained the attention of Sir Bobby Robson, the then England manager and made his debut. At the 1990 FIFA World Cup, Platt increased his continental reputation by scoring goals with both head and feet, whilst displaying passing abilities and high work rates. His performances in Italy earned him a move to Bari in 1991.

In 1992 Platt moved to Juventus, where he spent one season. In 1993, he moved to Sampdoria where he stayed for two seasons before returning to England with Arsenal, taking the total amount of money spent on his transfer fees to £20 million. Platt played with the London club for three years and was part of the 1998 Arsenal team that won the Premier League and FA Cup Double; before his retirement in 1998. Platt continued scoring goals for England, playing in Euro 92 and 96. Despite his efforts, England failed to qualify for the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

Platt also served as manager of Sampdoria before leaving his post owing to poor results. Afterwards, he returned to England as player-manager of Nottingham Forest. Platt also managed the England Under-21 team. He is currently serving on Manchester City's coaching staff as first team coach.