After spells at Tooting & Mitcham United, Millwall and Chelsea, Stepney was sold to Manchester United for a record fee of £55,000. Matt Busby picked Stepney as his first choice goalkeeper and in 1967 he became part of the First Division title winning team.
This led the side to qualification for the 1968 European Cup, a competition which had not yet been won by an English team. This was about to change though, as Stepney helped the side to progress to the final at Wembley. There he would make a point blank save against legendary Benfica striker, Eusebio when the scores were level. Eusebio was so shocked at Stepney's save that he stopped to applaud him. United would go onto win the game 4-1 in extra time and ultimately the first European Cup won by an English team.
However, he would continue to hold the Manchester United number one shirt. Though the club were relegated in 1974, he would help them back to the first division as champions in the next season. Amazingly he was United's joint top scorer at Christmas after scoring two goals from penalties, and even dislocated his jaw while shouting instructions at his defence.
The following season saw United emerge with a useful setup, to which Stepney's experienced head would prove pivotal. He would participate in the 1976 and 1977 FA Cup finals, putting right the first by winning the second. Making some impressive saves in the game Stepney proved important in United winning the league and cup double.
In 1982, Stepney retired from football after spells at Dallas Tornado and Altritcham completed a remarkable career with 678 appearances and 2 goals to his name. Since retiring he has featured prominently on the after dinner circuit, where his tales of success, as well as anecdotes from his playing days are popular with audiences. He hosts The Legends Football Phone In on Century Radio in Manchester.
