Colin Appleton, who has died aged 85, completed two years’ National Service in The Royal Leicestershire Regiment 1957-59. He was based at Glen Parva Barracks, so he could play for Leicester City on Saturdays. He also played for the Army, and represented the Depot at soccer and cricket.

He was born in Scarborough and signed for Scarborough FC, then in the Midland League, but his talent was soon spotted by Leicester City, which he joined soon after his18th birthday. His career blossomed under the manager, Matt Gillies, and he became first choice No 6 in a strong half-back line with Frank McLintock and Ian King.

He helped Leicester City win the Second Division title 1956-57 and reach the FA Cup Final in 1961. He was appointed captain shortly afterwards, when they chased the double in the 1962-63 season, sadly achieving neither, collapsing towards the end of the League season and losing 3-1 to Manchester United in the FA Cup Final.

However he captained the team when they won their first ever major trophy, winning the 1964 League Cup. He was awarded a testimonial in 1964 in recognition of his services. After 323 appearances for the Club in 12 years, he moved on to Charlton Athletic in 1966. In 1967 he started a 14-year second career as a player/manager and later manager.

He lived in his home town in later years with his wife Sheila; he had latterly suffered from dementia.