Bobby Fisher (footballer)

Robert Paul Fisher (born 3 August 1956) is an English retired professional footballer, best remembered for his 9 years as a right back in the Football League with Orient, for whom he made 350 appearances and was captain. After leaving Orient in 1982, Fisher played for Cambridge United and Brentford, before dropping into non-League football. He later moved into coaching and television.

Orient
A right back, Fisher began his career in the youth system at Second Division club Orient and made his debut during the 1972–73 season while still a teenager. He broke into the team in the following season and became the Brisbane Road club's regular right back until 1982. Aside from being named captain, a highlight of Fisher's time with Orient came in April 1978, when the Os' 1977–78 FA Cup run saw them denied a place at Wembley after a 3–0 defeat to First Division club Arsenal in the semi-finals. Orient's relegation to Third Division in 1982 saw Fisher leave the club, after making 350 appearances in 9 years.

Cambridge United
Fisher signed for Second Division club Cambridge United in November 1982. He failed to hold down a regular place in the team and departed in February 1984.

Brentford
Fisher joined Third Division strugglers Brentford for a £5,000 fee in February 1984. His presence in the defence helped stabilise the defence and guide the Bees away from relegation to a 20th-place finish. He continued as Frank McLintock's first choice right back until March 1985, when young centre back Keith Millen broke into the team and McLintock moved Danis Salman to right back. Fisher had his contract cancelled and he departed Brentford in October 1986, having made 56 appearances during just over $2 1/2$ years at Griffin Park.

Maidstone United
Fisher ended his career in non-League football with Conference club Maidstone United.

Coaching career
Fisher was head coach of the Great Britain Over 45s team which won the gold medal at the 2009 Maccabiah Games. He served as assistant to David Pollock of the Open team at the 2013 edition.

Television career
After his retirement from football, Fisher dabbled in acting, making appearances in television series' Space Precinct, Starhunter, Forensic Factor and The Manageress.

Personal life
Fisher is the nephew of former footballer Mark Lazarus and began his career at Orient while Lazarus was winding down his league career with his second spell at the club. Being mixed-race and Jewish, he has spoken about the racism he received from the terraces as a player.

Career statistics
