Few clubs can survive without the good fortune of attracting loyal servants like George Showell, whose years at the club were characterised by his willingness to take on a number of roles with a good-natured professionalism. Arriving in 1966 as a full back of some repute who had played for Wolves in their 1960 F.A. Cup final victory, his opportunities to make an impression on the pitch were limited by injury, and he had to retire when a persistent knee injury finally got the better of him.
Ironically, that was when Wrexham got the best out of him! Showell took on the role of assistant to manager Alvan Williams, and when he left at the end of the season Showell became John Neal's right hand man as well as physio. Showell's calming influence was an essential component behind the scenes as Wrexham enjoyed the greatest period in the club's history.
Runs to the quarter finals of the European Cup Winners Cup, F.A. Cup and the League Cup, as well as promotion from the Fourth to the Second Division followed, with Showell continuing his role as lieutenant to Arfon Griffiths.
He was unable to halt the slide back to the Fourth Division under Mel Sutton and Bobby Roberts, although he did have a brief spell in charge of the team, and would have been a popular permanent choice as he turned around a miserable season, registering 2-0 wins over Chester and eventual champions Chesterfield and handing over to Dixie McNeil having set off on a six match run of wins.
Showell was assistant to McNeil, and continued in that capacity under Brian Flynn, but sadly his association with the club was to end in unfortunate circumstances, leaving because he did not meet new requirements for physiotherapists' qualifications.
Born: 9/2/34 Bilston
Debut: 2/12/66 Stockport County (a) 0-1
Top Scorer: -
Most Goals: 1 1967-8
Hat-tricks: -
Ever Present: -
Last Match: 4/5/68 Port Vale (a) 1-1
Honours: Welsh Cup runner-up 1966-7
International honours: -
Non-playing career:
Coach 1968-1985
Physiotherapist 1968-1990
Assistant Manager 1985-1990
Caretaker Manager 1985
Clubs: Wolves, Bristol City
