 He terrorised opposition defences in the early 1950s, plundering 63 goals in as many appearances - a remarkable strike-rate at any level in the game. His tally of 46 goals in the 1951/52 season, which helped Wednesday return to Division One as champions, set a new club-record which stands to this day. Derek’s career was tragically cut short after he suffered a broken leg in a clash with goalkeeper George Thompson during Wednesday’s game at Preston North End on 14 February 1953. As he prepared to leave hospital, it was discovered that a small wound at the back of the leg had become infected and gangrene had set in. At the age of just 23, Derek was given the devastating news that the infected limb would have to be amputated in order to save his life. A testimonial match played between a Sheffield XI and a team of internationals was attended by 55,000 supporters and raised £7,500. A further £2,700 was donated by local newspapers and £15,000 by a ‘shilling fund’ held in the city. Derek took a job in a bakery firm owned by a Sheffield Wednesday director before returning to the club in 1962 to run the development fund. He was appointed manager of Wednesday in January 1971 and they led the Second Division for a period during the following season before finishing tenth. Severely hampered by a virus which swept through the club, Wednesday made a poor start to the 1973/74 season and the board made the controversial decision to sack Derek on Christmas Eve. After working as a representative for a sportswear firm, Derek returned to the game across the Steel City as part of the commercial team at Sheffield United. Derek went on to become Commercial Manager at Bramall Lane before rising through the ranks to become managing director, chief executive and later chairman of the club. The proud Sheffielder was made a freeman of the city of Sheffield in 1993 and in 2003 he was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours List. He received an honorary doctorate degree from Sheffield Hallam University later in the same year. As the Blades celebrated promotion to the Premiership in April 2006, following an absence of 12 years, Derek resigned as chairman to take up the role of Vice-President. Derek passed away on 5 March 2008, leaving behind his wife Sylvia, son Martyn, daughter Suzanne and four grandchildren. Derek’s funeral took place on 14 March 2008 at a packed Sheffield Cathedral, with many famous sporting personalities in attendance. Fans of both Sheffield clubs listened to the service outside on loudspeakers. Paying tribute to the legendary figure, Bishop Jack said: "I have been a priest for 40 years and never have I met more universal praise for anyone than I have for Derek Dooley. In newspapers, on radio and TV, on the streets, in the homes and in the pubs of this city, everyone speaks with deep affection for Derek.” Former Sheffield United manager Dave Bassett, who enjoyed a close working relationship with Derek, delivered an emotional address. He said: “Derek was a giant of a man in every respect.”
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