Former Chelsea winger Eric Parsons, an ever present member of our 1955 title winning team, has passed away at the age of 87.
The news comes just a week after the death of his former team mate, Les Stubbs.
Born in Worthing, Eric’s football career began in London with West Ham United, after joining them in 1947.
He had a successful career at Upton Park, scoring 34 goals and making a total of 145 league appearances.
Chelsea signed Parsons in 1950, with the fee of £23,000 breaking our previous transfer record.
He went on to become a key member of our first title winning squad, as Chelsea historian Rick Glanvill writes.
‘There are several explanations as to how Eric earned his nickname ‘Rabbit’ – the most obvious being that, as a speedy, direct right winger, his runs mimicked those of the motorised ‘hare’ used during greyhound meets at Stamford Bridge.
‘However, he appears to have arrived at the Bridge from West Ham with the moniker already attached.
‘Much like Peter Houseman, a later player on the opposite flank, Parsons earned an inordinate amount of flak from some supporters, to whom he was the nearest target. Early injuries marring his early career didn’t help, but no one could question his work-rate as he was more than prepared to track back and help his defence.
‘Eric shoved the jeers down dissenters’ throats in 1953/54, a breakthrough season in which he scored nine times. And in the glorious 1954/55 campaign, he was one of just two ever-presents (the other being wing-half Derek Saunders) and was absolutely instrumental in that jubilee year title success.
‘Eric’s 11 goals made him third top-scorer. He and left-sided colleague Frank Blunstone were also wonderful goal creators and linked brilliantly across the pitch.
‘There was no finer summary of this than in the final match on the Fulham Road against Sheffield Wednesday in April 1955. Chelsea won 3-0 to clinch the Championship, with Parsons heading the opener just before half-time from Blunstone’s cross (pictured below). Peter Sillett’s second half penalty settled nerves, but when Eric’s hook shot hit the net it was party time at the Bridge.
‘That was one of the reasons that, while key men Roy Bentley and Ted Drake had their say, fans gathered before the old East Stand chanted ‘Ra-bbit! Ra-bbit!’
‘Eric stepped forward to increased cheers, his personal contribution at last acknowledged in the most sincere and hearty fashion.’
Eric left Chelsea in 1956, after making 158 league appearances and scoring 37 goals.
He went on to play for Brentford, until retiring in 1961.
Vital Chelsea sends our condolences to Eric’s family and friends.
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