Full name Robert Paul Fisher 1982–1984 Cambridge United Place of birth Wembley, England Name Bobby Fisher | Years Team Role Footballer 1973–1982 Orient | |
Date of birth (1956-08-03) 3 August 1956 (age 59) | ||
Robert Paul "Bobby" Fisher (born 3 August 1956) is an English retired professional football right back, best remembered for his 9 years in the Football League with Orient, for whom he made 350 appearances and was captain. After leaving Orient in 1982, Fisher played for Cambridge United and Brentford, before dropping into non-league football. He later moved into coaching and television.
Contents
- Orient
- Cambridge United
- Brentford
- Maidstone United
- Coaching career
- Television career
- Personal life
- References
Orient
A right back, Fisher began his career in the youth system at Division Two club Orient, making his debut during the 1972–73 season while still a teenager. He broke into the team in the following season and became the Brisbane Road club's regular left back until 1982. Aside from being named captain, a highlight of Fisher's time with Orient came in April 1978, when the Os' 1977–78 FA Cup run saw them denied a place at Wembley after a 3–0 defeat to Division One side Arsenal in the semi-finals. Orient's relegation to Division Three in 1982 saw Fisher leave the club, after making 350 appearances in 9 years.
Cambridge United
Fisher signed for Division Two side Cambridge United in November 1982. He failed to hold down a regular place in the side and departed in February 1984.
Brentford
Fisher joined Division Three strugglers Brentford for a £5,000 fee in February 1984, becoming new manager Frank McLintock's second signing for the club. His presence in the defence helped stabilise the defence and guide the Bees away from relegation to a 20th-place finish. He continued as McLintock's first choice right back until March 1985, when young centre back Keith Millen broke into the team and McLintock moved Danis Salman to right back. Fisher had his contract cancelled and departed Brentford on October 1986, having made 56 appearances during just over two and a half years at Griffin Park.
Maidstone United
Fisher closed out his career in non-league football with Conference side Maidstone United.
Coaching career
Fisher was head coach of the Great Britain Over 45s side which won the gold medal at the 2009 Maccabiah Games. He served as assistant to David Pollock of the Open team at the 2013 edition.
Television career
After his retirement from football, Fisher dabbled in acting, making appearances in television series' Space Precinct, Starhunter, Forensic Factor. and The Manageress.
Personal life
Fisher is the nephew of former footballer Mark Lazarus and began his career at Orient while Lazarus was winding down his league career with his second spell at the club. Being mixed-race and Jewish, he has spoken about the racism he received from the terraces as a player.