English Football Record Breaker: An Ode to Neil Warnock

Tonight, the iconic Neil Warnock will create history when he takes charge of his 1,602nd game in English professional football, which will set a new all-time record.

Entering the Football League for the first time in 1987, Warnock has been on an historic journey, taking charge of the likes of Scarborough, Bury, Crystal Palace, and an eight year spell at his boyhood club Sheffield Utd; winning promotion throughout that time on a record eight occasions.

Warnock has beaten some illustrious names to create history tonight, taking over the record from Dario Gradi, and surpassing the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Brian Clough and Harry Redknapp to name a few, on his way to the milestone.

With Warnock, you know what you’re going to get, and that’s why he’s transformed himself into a cult figure over the years. The passion to win still shines through him at the ripe old age of 72, but his comedic flair is something that will be spoken about for generations to come. 

So without further ado, he’s our ode to Neil Warnock, and some of his most iconic moments.

Warnock goes LG

Where else to start but here? Warnock’s time at Cardiff was littered with iconic meme worthy moments, some of which we’ll delve into later. There really is no better place to start however, than with this superb moment…

We’re in London, aren’t we?

Neil Warnock, Millwall away. Need we say anymore? Warnock has had his fair share of run-ins with referees during his time in management, and he made sure this one knew he wasn’t happy with the decisions going against his side...

The Signed Photos

It’s pre-season, you’re following Middlesbrough and a chirpy Neil Warnock walks past. It’s only right to ask for a picture isn’t it? Fortunately, Neil is more than prepared for this, and carries round a bum bag full of signed pictures, as only he would…

Keeping Healthy

If you’re ever so fortunate as to catch Neil Warnock out on his bike, fear not, he’s as friendly as you’d think.

Forrest Gump

As he’s gotten older, Neil Warnock’s iconic moments have come around more often, and this is another corker. Breaking into a Forrest Gump monologue mid-press conference? Only he can do this…

Getting along with other managers

Heading back to 2018, Cardiff and Wolves were battling to be promoted to the Premier League. An unbelievable few minutes at the end of the game saw Wolves take the lead in the 91st minute, and Cardiff missing TWO penalties in added time. Following the full-time whistle, Warnock had a few choice words for Nuno Espirito Santo.

His love for referees

Finally, we end on perhaps his most iconic note. His Cardiff side were battling to stay in the league, and took part in a feisty encounter with Chelsea. It’s safe to say that Neil didn’t appreciate the referee’s decisions, making it abundantly clear after full-time.

Over his career, Neil Warnock has managed a whopping 17 clubs in 41 years! His career is one that a lot can only aspire to, and from all of us at The Sack Race, we say congratulations Neil, and thank you for being you.

Most games managed in English professional football

Neil Warnock: 1,601

Dario Gradi: 1,601

Fred Everiss: 1,524

Sir Alex Ferguson: 1,503

Brian Clough: 1,451

Jim Smith: 1,442

Harry Redknapp: 1,434

Courtesy of Sky Sports