Introduction
Chris Aylward (born 9 January 1974) is a former English professional footballer who played as a striker in the Football League during the 1990s. A product of the Plymouth Argyle youth system, he spent the early part of his career with his hometown club before moving to Bristol City and Torquay United. Aylward is remembered for his physical presence in front of goal and a decisive goal that helped Plymouth Argyle secure promotion from the Third Division in the 1996–97 season. After a brief spell in non‑league football, he retired from professional play and later entered the coaching side of the sport, working with youth teams in the South West of England.
Early life and youth career
Family background
Christopher Aylward was born and raised in Plymouth, Devon. His family has long roots in the city; his father, a long‑time local businessman, worked in the shipping industry, while his mother was a school teacher. Aylward was the eldest of three children, and from a young age he displayed an aptitude for sports, especially football. His parents encouraged his involvement in organized play, enrolling him in a local youth football club when he was eight years old.
Youth development at Plymouth Argyle
Aylward joined the Plymouth Argyle Academy at the age of 12, attracted by the club’s reputation for nurturing local talent. Over the next few years he progressed through the club’s age‑group teams, earning recognition for his pace and aerial ability. By 1991, when he turned 17, he was training with the reserve squad and made occasional appearances in the Southern League matches that served as a testing ground for youth prospects. His performances caught the attention of the first‑team coaching staff, and he was given a short‑term professional contract in 1993.
Professional career
Plymouth Argyle (1994–1997)
Aylward made his senior debut for Plymouth Argyle on 18 August 1994, in a Second Division match against Blackpool. Although the team lost 2–1, his contribution - particularly in the final minutes - earned praise from the manager. Over the next two seasons he established himself as a reliable squad player, providing cover at inside‑forward and occasionally at centre‑half. A highlight of his time at Home Park came during the 1996–97 campaign. In a decisive match against Darlington, Aylward scored a last‑minute header that secured a 1–0 victory, giving Plymouth the second spot in the table and a place in the promotion play‑offs.
During his tenure with Argyle he appeared in 72 league matches, scoring 14 goals. He also featured in the FA Cup and the League Cup, contributing to the club’s run to the fourth round in the former. Aylward’s commitment to the club was reflected in his loyalty; he declined an offer from a rival club after his first season in the league, choosing instead to remain with his hometown side.
Bristol City (1997–1999)
In the summer of 1997, Aylward transferred to Bristol City for a fee of £200,000, a move intended to give him a more prominent role. The move marked a new chapter in his career, as he was expected to compete for a starting berth in a club aiming for promotion to the Second Division. In his first season with the club he found the net eight times in 37 league appearances, with an additional goal in the FA Cup.
The 1998–99 season was less successful for Aylward. He struggled with a hamstring injury that limited him to just 12 appearances and two goals. The club’s managerial changes and tactical shifts also affected his playing time. Despite these challenges, he remained a squad player until his release in the summer of 1999.
Torquay United (1999–2000)
Following his release from Bristol City, Aylward signed with Torquay United, a club located approximately 50 miles south of his hometown. His experience was expected to provide a boost to the club’s attack. He scored four goals in 28 league appearances, though Torquay finished in the lower half of the Third Division table that season. Aylward’s performances were regarded as steady, though he did not replicate the impact he had at Plymouth.
Later career and non‑league football
After a brief stint with non‑league side St Austell in the 2000–01 season, Aylward announced his retirement from full‑time professional football. He made two appearances for the club but did not score. Post‑retirement, Aylward remained active in football by taking coaching courses, completing the UEFA B Licence in 2003, and subsequently working with youth academies across Devon.
Playing style and characteristics
Technical abilities
Aylward’s playing style was characterised by a combination of physical strength and aerial prowess. At 1.83 metres, his height and athleticism made him an effective target man, able to hold up the ball and bring teammates into play. He was known for his timing in the box and his ability to win headers against defenders. In addition to his aerial work, he possessed a decent first touch and the capacity to link up with midfielders, facilitating quick transitions from defense to attack.
Tactical role
Primarily deployed as a centre‑forward, Aylward was often tasked with leading the line in front of the defence. During his tenure at Plymouth Argyle, he was utilised on both wings as an inside forward to stretch opposition shapes. At Bristol City, his role shifted to a more traditional striker, where he operated as a focal point in front of a lone striker system. His versatility allowed managers to employ him as a second striker or a lone forward depending on the tactical setup.
Career statistics
Club appearances and goals
The following table summarises Aylward’s senior career appearances and goals. All figures represent league matches unless otherwise noted.
- Plymouth Argyle (1994–1997): 72 caps, 14 goals
- Bristol City (1997–1999): 49 caps, 10 goals
- Torquay United (1999–2000): 28 caps, 4 goals
- St Austell (2000–2001): 2 caps, 0 goals
- Total: 151 caps, 28 goals
International career
Aylward did not receive a call‑up to any senior or youth national team. He was, however, included in a Devon regional representative side in 1996, scoring a goal in a friendly match against a combined team from Cornwall.
Honours and achievements
Team honours
- Football League Third Division runner‑up (promotion) with Plymouth Argyle – 1996–97
Individual honours
- Plymouth Argyle Player of the Year – 1995–96
- Southern League Youth Player of the Year – 1991–92
Personal life
Family
Chris Aylward married his long‑time partner, Sarah, in 2004. The couple has two children, a son born in 2006 and a daughter born in 2009. His children were raised in Plymouth, and he has encouraged them to pursue their interests in sports and education.
Education and post‑football career
While still an active professional, Aylward pursued part‑time studies in sports science at Plymouth University, completing a diploma in 2002. Following retirement, he founded a football coaching academy in Plymouth, providing structured training programs for under‑12 to under‑16 age groups. The academy has gained recognition for its focus on technical skill development and sportsmanship. Additionally, Aylward has served as a match analyst for local radio broadcasts covering the Exeter City vs. Plymouth Argyle fixtures.
Legacy and impact
Impact at Plymouth Argyle
Aylward’s contributions to Plymouth Argyle during the mid‑1990s are still remembered by supporters. His decisive goal in the promotion campaign remains a highlight in the club’s history. The match footage of the 1996–97 season is frequently shown at club events, and Aylward is often invited to speak during youth development seminars, sharing insights on the importance of perseverance and teamwork.
Post‑retirement involvement in football
After leaving professional play, Aylward has remained involved in football through coaching and mentorship. His academy in Plymouth has produced several players who have gone on to sign professional contracts with clubs in the English Football League. He also volunteers as a referee for community matches and participates in charity football events aimed at raising funds for local hospitals.
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