For Tommy, it’s something of a full-circle moment. Back in 2005, when FC United were being formed, he was one of the first names approached to take the role of the club’s inaugural manager.
“I got a phone call, and it was all a bit shrouded in secrecy,” Tommy recalled. “I was invited down to Droylsden to meet the committee and when I asked what it was about, they said, ‘we can’t tell you.’ But I went along anyway, and the interview went well.”
The following day, Tommy was contacted again and asked if he’d be interested in the job, but with the condition that he took Karl Marginson as his number two.
“At that time Karl didn’t have much experience, and I’d have preferred to bring in my own team. The committee then felt it was important to go with someone from Manchester rather than Liverpool as the first manager, and Karl got the job. The rest, as they say, is history.”
Tommy speaks highly of Karl today, considering him a good friend, and fully understands the club’s decision at the time. The pair would go on to face each other many times as opposing managers — including the memorable 2007/08 playoff final at Gigg Lane, where FC defeated Tommy’s Skelmersdale United 4-1 to secure promotion.
From Youth Football to Non-League Veteran
Tommy’s coaching journey began modestly, looking after his son’s youth team when his boy was 14 or 15. From there, he progressed into Skelmersdale’s U18s, then the reserves, before moving on to Burscough Reserves and eventually taking charge of the first team at Ashton Town.
Over the years, Tommy managed at clubs including Skelmersdale United, Stantondale, Prescot Cables and Ashton Town, and also worked for six years as a scout at Southport. He describes his 11-and-a-half years at Skelmersdale and 10 years at Prescot Cables as some of the proudest moments of his career.
“I’m proud of the players I’ve spotted and nurtured over the years, many of whom have gone on to play professionally,” Tommy explained. “I’ve also had a lot of players who later became managers themselves — that gives me as much pride as anything.”
Indeed, the list is impressive. Players who turned into managers after time with Tommy include Mark Beesley, John Coleman, Liam Watson, Mark Duffy, Craig Noon, FC’s former manager Neil Reynolds and ex-player Dave Chadwick. Current Manchester United Academy Director, Stephen Torpey, also played under Tommy.
Tommy has always had an eye for talent. He once spotted Russell Payne in a Sunday League cup final, quickly signing him for Skelmersdale before he was snapped up by Liverpool for a fee of around £10,000 — a significant sum at the time. He also helped revive Mark Duffy’s career after his release from Wrexham, with Duffy going on to carve out a successful professional career.
Linking Up with Mark Beesley
Tommy’s connection with FC United manager Mark Beesley goes back to his time at Burscough, when he invited Mark — then nearing the end of his playing career — to play a couple of games. The two kept in touch, with Tommy always available to offer advice or a second opinion.
After six years scouting at Southport, Tommy returned once more to Skelmersdale, but stepped aside when the club was relegated to county level.
“My knowledge and contacts are in the National Leagues, Northern Premier and at steps 5 and 6. I didn’t feel I could be as effective at that level, so I moved aside to give the club the best chance to succeed.”
As Mark Beesley has continued to strengthen his backroom team he knew who to call.
“Mark got in touch and asked if I’d be interested in helping out by watching players and matches. After that discussion we both went away on holiday before making it a formality upon our return at the start of the league season. I’ve already started and I’m watching several games a week. For me it’s about quality, not just handing over a big list of names. I’ll only recommend players I believe can really add something to the club.”
Beesley is delighted to have him on board:
“Tommy is someone I trust and respect. His knowledge of the non-league scene is second to none, and having him alongside us will be a massive help as we continue to build this squad the right way.”
A Welcome Addition — 20 Years Later
Nearly two decades after that first approach in 2005, Tommy Lawson is finally part of FC United of Manchester.
“I’ve always admired what the club stands for, both on and off the pitch,” Tommy said. “To now be part of that journey is something I’m really looking forward to.”
We’re proud to welcome Tommy on board — even if it is 20 years later! With his experience, eye for talent and deep knowledge of the non-league game, we look forward to uncovering the next hidden gem who will go on to make their mark in FC United history.