Lifelong Silkmen fan Ken Sparkes received a very special birthday treat earlier today, as First Team Manager Danny Whitaker paid him a surprise visit.
Armed with an array of gifts, our Magic Man certainly lived up to his affectionate nickname and the look on Ken’s face when he walked through the door was literally priceless.
After Ken had opened his gifts, he reminisced about his time following The Silkmen and some of the standout players he has been so privileged to watch.
When asked who his favourite Silkmen players have been, Ken didn’t hesitate in naming legendary figures.
The first was former skipper Frank Beaumont – who became the first-ever recipient of the FA Trophy back in 1970.
In a glittering five-year spell, Frank literally won everything put before him and to some, he is still regarded as our greatest-ever captain.
The second player that Ken named was the gaffer himself – Danny Whitaker.
Ken spoke about how Danny used to mesmerise him on the pitch and was one of the best passers of the ball that he had ever seen.
However, Ken also spoke about a match when Danny left him a little frustrated to say the last.
In April 2011, Danny was aiming for promotion with Chesterfield and was in no mood to do his old side any favours when Gary Simpson’s side arrived in Derbyshire.
Lewis Chambers handed the visitors the lead in first half injury-time, yet parity was restored on the hour mark when Craig Davies rifled the ball home from the edge of the area.
With the game ebbing towards a stalemate, Danny fired a low drive into the corner of the net to break the Silkmen hearts.
Ken has never forgotten that day, but stated “I will forgive Danny for scoring the winner against us, especially now that he has left me speechless by visiting me on my birthday!
“I can’t thank Danny enough – I never expected this and will remember it forever.”
Danny Whitaker added:
“Ken has been an incredible fan so many years – his support has never wavered and I am genuinely in awe of him on so many levels.
“As such, I wanted to surprise Ken today, as he celebrates his 94th birthday.
“I feel humbled to be able to play a small part on Ken’s special day, and I hope that he enjoys all the celebrations.”
Happy Birthday, Ken!
