Neil Illman Player Profile
Debut: Scarborough (H, 1-1), 19/08/2000 
Neil Illman began his career as a trainee at Middlesbrough, before moving down into the non-league with Eastwood Town. After a successful period at the non-league outfit where he was a prolific goalscorer, Illman made the move back to the Football League with a switch to Plymouth Argyle.
Unfortunately, the move to Plymouth didn’t work out and he joined Cambridge United in advance of a loan switch to Exeter City. The move to the Grecians was followed by a permanent move to Northwich, where Illman found his feet. Although injury limited his appearances, he contributed 16 goals during his two-year spell.
After a couple of loan moves to the likes of Doncaster and Frickley Athletic, Illman signed for Stevenage in 2000 as one of Paul Fairclough’s first signings upon his return to the club. He settled well at Stevenage and made 59 appearances during his stay at Broadhall Way, used largely as an impact sub and where the majority of his 17 goals came from.
After leaving Stevenage in 2002, Illman re-joined Northwich before shorter spells at Eastwood and Stratford Town.
Author: Matthew Kett
