Carl Baker and Stockport - an example to us all
In an age when football is a multi-million pound global business I often struggle to relate to the game and its protagonists, who have become remote celebrity figures with little in common with the people who pay handsomely to watch them.
But every now and again a story comes along that unlocks something emotional deep inside me, the sort that really makes me feel as though I can empathise with a footballer once more.
This is one of them.
League One Stockport drew 2-2 at Yeovil on Saturday. It was a result which took both teams on to six points so far in the season and was in many ways unremarkable.
What made it significant was that both the Stockport goals were scored by Hatters forward Carl Baker, taking his tally to nine goals for the season and making him the highest scorer in the country this season.
Just days earlier Stockport manager Gary Ablett had the unenviable task of breaking the news to Baker that the player's elder brother Michael had lost his battle against leukaemia.
Baker was under no pressure to play on Saturday but called Ablett on Thursday evening to say that he wanted to be part of the team.
Baker, shown here wearing the Hatters pre-season kit, scored twice on Saturday days after the death of his brother
After putting Stockport in front with his 22nd minute penalty he raced to the dugout and collected a T-shirt he had prepared in advance. It said 'For u Mike' and Baker held it aloft while all of his team-mates, goalkeeper included, rushed to join him.
At the end of the game Baker was sent over to the away supporters by Ablett. A couple of hundred had made the long trek south to Huish Park and they presented the striker with a card that everyone in the away end had signed.
Baker was hugged by many of them and I'm told that it was a genuinely emotional moment. For me, it is an example of what football is really all about.
Baker's brother had been in attendance at Stockport's last home game and I could only imagine how difficult it must have been for Carl to retain his focus and concentration for last Saturday's match.
Perhaps it provided a distraction for Carl, who has been in brilliant form this season; a real bag of tricks playing just behind the main striker. Perhaps he felt that if he played he might score and would then have the opportunity to make a public demonstration of his feelings for his older brother.
To make matters even worse, Baker's younger brother also has leukaemia and it is obviously an extremely difficult time for the whole family.
I'm told that Baker is a typical scouser, a little bit cheeky, a very bubbly character and fun to be around. Now 26, he came into the professional game relatively late having joined Morecambe in 2007.
It means that he appreciates every single day he spends as a professional player. In my experience professionals who have previously worked in a 'normal' job often have a greater appreciation of the privilege of being paid to play the game.
Stockport brought him to Edgeley Park in July 2008 for a figure in the region of £200,000 - a lot of money in the lower leagues. He is clearly at the right club.
The Hatters are currently in administration but they have gone above and beyond what could be expected to raise the profile of Leukaemia Research.
The club's players wore a cerise pink and black striped shirt for their pre-season friendlies. It has a historical connection as they are the colours Stockport wore in 1900, but the Leukaemia Research logo was featured on them.
The shirts are now being auctioned off to raise money for the charity and are fetching £200 a piece. The players and staff at the club have pitched in to buy one for £500.
With Stockport in administration they aren't a particularly attractive proposition for business investment so every unused advertising board at Edgeley Park is currently filled with one for Leukaemia Research.
When a board is eventually sold the club, despite their financial travails, are donating 30% of the fee to Leukaemia Research.
The club decided to raise money for the charity as a Baker and several other staff at the club have relations suffering from blood cancer diseases. As someone at Stockport told me: "We might have done a lot wrong at the club but we have got this just about right."
I couldn't agree more. Thousands of words are written every weekend about the latest flare-up in the Premier League, the hottest transfer rumour or the latest takeover talk.
But I cannot help but feel that Baker's courage, his bond with the Hatters supporters and Stockport's willingness to embrace such a worthy cause chimes with what made me first fall in love with football.
And I wish all of them well.
Hello, I'm Paul Fletcher and I mainly write about life in the Football League. I have a great enthusiasm for a whole range of sports and love to spread the word about the great game of rugby league. You can also follow me on 
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This guy needs to be shown to the top teams and to show them that there wining diving and immature antics (adebayor) are getting them no where.
good blog my friend
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Good on stockport, in the days where money is everything, what they are doing is pure class, many other clubs should take a leaf out of their book.
I,m sorry to hear about his older brother, and I wish the best of luck to his younger brother and hope he overcomes his illness.
Keep on scoring Baker and hopefully more people will take notice of Stockport and the good things they are doing for charity!
Best wishes to the Baker family
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every now and again you read a piece that humbles you, this article is one of those and I thank you for writing it
I lost my brother to testicular cancer 7 years ago. He died on a Saturday morning. For 10 years we had played side by side in a local sunday league team, and the next day i pulled on the shirt and played - because he would have wanted me to. I scored the first in a 3-0 win, and it was probably the biggest outlet of emotion I had during the whole period. My heart goes out to Carl Baker and his family for their loss, but I am sure his brother would have been so very proud of him on Saturday!
The chap who posted comment no1 got it spot on as well!
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Paul,
Possibly the best blog I've ever read. I was at Yeovil on Saturday and just to see the courage, class and strength from Carl was amazing. The tribute to his brother was very well done.
When he came over to the fans he was shocked that we'd done a card for him.
This is why we watch lower league football. You can shove the greedy league as far as I'm concerned
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Terrific piece. Bought a tear to my eye and I'm reading it in the office! Class stuff from the Yeovil fans also.
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Football at the top level has lost its soul.
County fan and proud.
RIP Mike Baker.
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Fantastic article. Tremendous effort from Carl Baker and a fitting tribute to his brother.
The example of Stockport County, and their manager, players and fans should strike a chord with many wealthier clubs - sadly I think we all know that it won't.
I might be a Wednesday fan at heart, but Stockport County have gained a new admirer here - and I hope I am one of many.
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An absolutely fantastic blog
What a man Carl Baker is, and what a generous football club Stockport County is.
I wish the very best to the Bakers after this hard time.
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Well done Paul on constructing one of the most poignant blogs i have ever read.
As a Liverpool fan, its very easy to get wrapped up in the Premiership and accept the behaviours and traits of its fans and players as the norm. Reading this reminds us, as you say, why we came to love the game to begin with.
Truly touching, and really has left me with a lot to think about - there are many learns to be had for many fans after reading this blog.
Also, the conduct and fund raising of Stockport as a club whilst staring administration in the face is truly admirable.
Full credit to the humanity of the Yeovil fans and my thoughts are with the Baker family.
Thank you :-)
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The loss of a loved one is never easy to overcome and seems to have been dealt with with great dignity by Stockport, Yeovil and the fans of both sides.
The ridiculous wages that players earn, and by association the directors of the blubs who started paying these ridiculous wages, have been consistnetly ripping the heart and soul out of football for the past 20 years. It is always refreshing to read a story, bad though the circumstances are, about a club that still maintains strong links with its fans, treating them as part of a wider community rather than an expendable resource, which happens at the higher end of the game.
Well done Stockport, Gary Ablett and all the fans who signed the card and may Michael Baker Rest In Peace.
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very touching story. what courage the boy has, and the fans.
cant see that happening in the premier league, which is quite unfortunate really.
rest in peace, mike baker. and all the best to the younger brother and the bakers.
http://wdkf.co.uk/
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Great article, quite emotional.
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Yeah, spot on.Top level football has lost it's way and it's ties with anything other than the banks. Hard to see any of the big 4 donating 30% of their advertising revenue to anything other than shareholders.
I know from experience playing football can help you through the worst of times and adversity can inspire you to great feats. Well done to Carl and hats off to the Yeovil supporters. Reminds me of days of yore when cluba and communities were symbiotic. Well done Stockport County!
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As a Chelsea supporter i read this article with much interest. It shows all of the premier teams up, it shows them that humility and courage is still in football, if not in the premier league, and it also shows what true, loyal fans will do for their team. Stockport fans need to congratulate each other for showing such kindness that would very rarely be seen in a premier league game, instead the premier supporting morons want to throw things at players and stewards who are there to do a job, Man.C Vs Arsenal, it makes me cringe when this sort of story is brought to light. I sincerely wish Carl and all his family & friends the very best for the future and pray that his younger brother comes through a most difficult time, one thing to note Carl, at the very least you have a tremendous bunch of supporters who obviously are real supporters and who will help you and the team out through thick & thin, i only wish i had the money to help get your team out of administration, it would be an honour to be able to write a cheque for the club, Mr Abramovich, if this story gets back to you, put your hand into your pockets and help this fantatstic club out, it's clubs like this that keeps our faith in our fantatstic game, and gives us all hope for the future of football.
A brilliant post, good luck for the rest of the season Stockport.
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What an amazing story; and so moving. This is the story that should be headlining BBC's sport pages; not the antics from the likes of Adebayor who are ruining our beautiful game.
Hope lives on with the likes of clubs such as Stockport County.
Carl Baker has my utmost admiration and Stockport football club another fan.
My deepest sympathy to all the Baker family.
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Given County's current predicament and financial worries this is a fine story and one that puts a number of things that have happened locally this last weekend into sharp contrast.
Perhaps if this story (and others in a similar vein) got the acreage of wasted lines of typeface instead of the antics of certain players at the COMS then football would indeed be richer for it (in the real sense). But then again, these type of stories don't sell the newspapers.
It goes without saying that many football fans will applaud County for their efforts and approach and that both the player and the club can look forward to happier times ahead.
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As a Brighton fan, I am watching Stockport County Old Boys this season - about half our team used to play for County and their financially-induced losses have been very much our gains.
We are also well aware of Carl Baker, as he scored a hat-trick at Withdean Stadium last month when County beat us 4-2, including a quite brilliant chip over the goalkeeper and a 6' 3" central defender on the line for his second! He showed then what a fine player he is and as your blog confirms, he has shown now what a fine man he is...
Best wishes to all the Baker family...
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Beautifully written and a touching story
With players like Carl Baker the little clubs will always survive
Let's hope that Carl can remain a beacon of hope to his younger brother and to County
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excellent blog again Paul. 19th anniversary of my mum's death from cancer today and this strikes a real chord...
Carl, Stockport & their travelling fans deserve all the plaudits they get.
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Having been born and raised on Merseyside - I read your column and thought back to when we were young and first fell in love with the beautiful game. Those were gentler times....however, you brought them home to me today. The "away" Yeovil fans signing the sympathy card was SO moving but so right. Carl Baker and family must have been so touched.
This should be "must" reading for all the top premier league teams.
Watched the Chelsea game on Saturday morning here in Toronto and haven't seen so much whining in all my life - then five minutes overtime to allow Chelsea to score, enough already.
Thank you for brightening my day, Paul....your writing is always fine but today it was enriching.
Wishing Stockport fans and team (and esp. Carl's family) all the very best for a great season.
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Fantastic story. It shows that there are people in football (players, managers and fans) who are decent and can focus on doing some good in the community. Sheff Wed and Villa have also done something similar recently. Very touching and sad that his younger brother is ill with the same thing.
Carl and his family deserve everyone's sympathies
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dodiesmith - the away fans were stockport supporters as the game was at Yeovil
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As a County fan I'm glad Baker is getting the plaudits he deserves. He has been our best player this season and arguably the best in the division despite the chaos in his family life.
However, I don't agree that stories like this are exclusive to lower leagues. I recall Frank Lampard, Wilson Palacious and Titi Camara all playing for big Premier League clubs following family deaths; Lampard scored the winning goal in a Champions League semi final just days after burying his mother. Premier League clubs might not donate 30% of their wealth to charity but they do set up charitable foundations. Look at Ulises de la Cruz back in Ecuador or Didier Drogba in the Ivory Coast. Good stories about Stockport may not sell players but, frankly, heartwarming stories about Premier League clubs don't either, that's why the Sun prefers headlines like City Twitty Ban Ban about Adebayor and so on.
Chelsea gave Scarborough FC, then my local league side, some financial assistance a few years ago (not that Scarborough did any good with it) and I think Olof Mellberg bought signed shirts for every Aston Villa away fan at his last match for the club.
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A great article and a truly touching story that was well worth bringing into public view with this blog. I'd only say, in response to one particular poster, that there are a lot of premier league clubs with fans that would behave exactly like those of Stockport, should a similar case happen to one of their own players. To simply use this story as a way of attacking Arsenal fans for being rightly upset with the actions of Adebayor isn't really on.
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Amazing story I wish you and your team success for the rest of the season.
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A fantastic blog beautifully written. I would like to wish Carl and his family my best wishes and well done to Stockport for all their support for Leukaemia.
I would like to say that I have a lot of admiration for Barcelona sporting the Unicef logo on their shirts. They couldn't have their logo in a better place.
Well done Carl, Stockport and Barca
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Carl Baker and Stockport County have a new fan. I'm humbled by this story, it restores faith in the football world and makes you realise that there are still real football people out there. I'm no Man City hater, but my first thoughts when reading this blog were; Adebayor, read this blog and then hang your head and your over inflated and overpaid ego in shame.
Ghod bless the Baker family at this testing time.
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@15
Hit the nail on the head there, this should indeed be the #1 story. This is what the beautiful game is about, sticking together, whether the same team or opposition it doesn't matter, situations such as this being to light the passion of the game. It's amazing how much people rally round when something of this nature takes effect.
Carl Baker deserves more than a pat on the back, more than a footballing award, he deserves a bravery award, though it seems doubtful considering the circumstances that'd he want it. It's testiment to lower league teams & supporters that this is how they deal with a tragedy. I applaud with the upmost respect Stockport & Yeovil both clubs & fans for the way they dealt with this. You are true football fans, and a part of the community which is being lost amongst the "Elite" with the millions being ploughed in.
Lower league football is improving year on year, whereas the Premier League, it doesn't change. The same cheats, the same moaning & whinning from the same players & managers. The usual rumours of players transfering for £20, 30, 40m, and DEMANDING £100k a week? Ridiculous? Certainly!
Then you have teams like Yeovil & Stockport, who strive to keep afloat and hope for a plum cup tie against one of the super rich clubs to help their coffers. Yet it's the "smaller" sides that show the rich exactly how it should be done. Donating 30% of board fees to a Charity for an extremely worthwhile cause, much more so than the pocket of Mr. Abramovich or the Sheik at City.
Stockport, Yeovil, I applaud you.
Carl Baker, I sincerely hope you gain success this season, you've come across as a true gentleman, and a man of true courage, you are a winner, regardless of your success this season, the true football fans who read this and feel the lump in their throat, those are the ones who matter, those are the ones who care, and those are the ones who appauld your commitment & bravery at such a difficult time. I wish Carl & his family all the best, and hopefully next time we see a blog with your name in it, it'll be confirming your brother's clean bill of health. My heart goes out to the Bakers, RIP Michael Baker, your brother has done you proud . . . . .
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The type of story that makes me proud to be a football fan. I was at Yeovil on Saturday and thought it was a very moving tribute, and this is from a Yeovil fan. RIP Mike Baker.
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Great article Paul, well highlighted and a pleasure to read. It does makes you realise that there are still real football people out there. If only more of these stories were shown to the majority of the so called top professionals.
No words can do this story justice, but my thoughts are with the Baker family.......well done Carl
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As was said above, the Premier League is not bereft of heart-warming tales, Lomana Lua-Lua returning for Portsmouth after his 18 month old son had died, comes to mind.
However, the generosity shown by Stockport is fantastic, and perhaps if the men in suits and the players on the pitch, in the Premier League, took a good look at this sotry, they might realise they don't actually need 150k a week to make them happy.
Maybe if the BBC were to give this story a little more exposure it would help reconnect the football world with the real world.
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Chelsea, Manchester Who? Adebayor, Ronaldo forget all the big clubs/names.
As a Stockport County fan and whilst on holiday in Devon recently i went to the Exeter -Yeovil game to take in a local football game.Real football clubs,with real hard working grass root football players, being watched by REAL supporters who actually worship their teams and don't follow then because its hip and trendy to do so.
As a Stockport County fan i am proud to say that Carl Baker is a fantastic example to all at the club.This applied before the untimely death of his brother. Recent events however and him playing on Saturday only go to highlight the pride in his family and in his club.
Well done Mr Baker everyone is extremely proud of you!
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Good blog Paul, great courage shown by Carl Baker and the bond that players share with their supporters is great to see and often forgotten especially in the Prem.
A mention to Jack Collison also, who's father died in a motorbike accident on his way to see Jack play against Spurs. He showed more bravery than I could imagine in playing the next game against Millwall, and aside from the minority of idiots who ruined that game, there was genuine emotion and support from the majority of Hammers fans. I agree that moments like that briefly help us remember why we love football.
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Excellent piece that rightly presents Carl Baker as an outstanding individual. Credit to the Hatters also; nothing can compare to the desperately sad circumstances that the Baker family face, but given the turmoil that the club and its fans have had to deal with it is good to see them supporting Carl in this way.
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While Carl is fondly remembered at Morecambe, quite rightly so, Mike is also very warmly remembered. I only met him a few times but the pride in his brother, and as importantly, the rest of his family shone through. He was a top bloke.
That two sons of the same family should get this disease is so unfair.
That both battled it with bravery and humour is a lesson to us all.
That Carl was able to honour Mike's memory by playing and scoring speaks volumes about the man and his love & respect for his brother.
A Morecambe fan is running the Great North Run for Leukaemia Research, this fund raiser has sadly taken on a greater poignancy, if anyone wants to put their hand in their pocket...
http://www.justgiving.com/Matt-Deighton/ I'm sure Matt Deighton will be remembering Mike as he runs.
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As a Hull fan who has followed my team throw thin to relevant thick at the moment this is exactly what I miss about the lower leagues.
This would never happen in the Premier League but would be commonplace at almost every League One or Two ground where the players are just like the fans and go through it every weekend for love as opposed to financial gain. Many around the country think we are mental but there is a part of every single Hull fan I know that longs again for Torquay weekenders and standing behind the goal at Moss Rose or Spotland.
Best wishes to all concerned.
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Great Blog
I used to live in Manchester and still look for Stockport's results and also our keeper Wayne M Hennesey was there for a while.
From today I will always look even more closely at SCFC because as a club and as a community of football fans you have shown all the rest of us what this game is really all about, I applaud you all to a man woman and child Stockport is a better place with you all being a part of it.
To say well done does not seem enough....makes you reassess your own life at times like this.
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First of all thanks for a great article to read Paul, and an article that has touched people involved with football, it makes me proud to be a Stockport County fan but also a fan of lower league football in general!
Carl Baker has been a great player for County since he joined from Morecambe in 2007!
All the very best wishes to Carl and the Baker family
Rest in Peace Mike Baker!
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Fair play to Carl - my little brother died from Cancer almost 2 years ago and I'm still a useless wreck...god knows how he managed to play after days only his brother's death.x
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Yeovil fan here. I didnt realise that his brother had passed away till i got to the game, and He was the best player on the pitch. took his goals very well, to play at all is admirable but to play like he did after loosing his brother is remarkable and the passion is why i love lower league football. Great respect to Carl and best wishes to him and his family.
Rest in peace Mike Baker!
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I am a City fan that worries for is own club, this sort of event is where football should be. Honest and caring, where the players and fans are integral to the club and not the accountants.
I hope that this story gets to some of the over paid and shelter 'superstars' and makes them reflect.
I hope his younger brother recovers and I wish him and his family all the best for the future.
steve
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what a well written blog. my heart goes out to Carl Baker & his family. football gets a lot of bad press [some of it deserved, some of it not] & the really good stuff gets lost in the wash.
what Stockport is doing is absolutely brilliant in the face of adversity, in trying to save the club, by putting the human side 1st. i hope they & their fans get there just rewards
RIP Mike Baker
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Mr Fletcher a wonderful article that puts the sport we all love into perspective.
The best thing that could happen with the Baker families approval is for this to be run as a story on Football Focus.
Having also noted the plight of Accrington Stanley - why for one weekend a season could the big fish not organise to support worthy grass roots causes such as these?
Shame on those who watch these clubs struggle...
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I totally echo your blog. What a character. Best wishes to all concerned.
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Does anyone think that Ashley Cole reads articles such as this and then reflects on the chapter in his autobiography regarding his disgust at the 55k per week contract offered to him by Arsenal, before hanging his head in shame?
I think we all know the answer....
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Carl after playing in the same schoolboy team with you at 15 for a year or so and meeting your dad you are both a credit to both your brothers!
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Absolute fantastic blog for an absolute fantastic footballer and person.
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Great article, very well written and 'hit the button' for a very worthy cause.
Just a crying shame the Beeb hasn't quite seen it the same way and placed it better to allow a higher profile and more publicity.
To all at SCFC and of course, their wonderful supporters, you have shown immense humanity to a family in great need.
To the Baker family, we applaud your courage in such difficult times.
From a Mackem in Malaysia who's been through something very similar.
What a great example you have set for us all.
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A truly moving story. Wonderfully written and puts into perspective what goes on in the Premier League (Adebayor etc.) This is why I am a supporter of Brighton and Hove Albion and the Football League as a whole. We are all united. Stockport County and Carl Baker have my and many other football fans respect. To do what you have is superb, and I for one now have a place in my heart for Stockport County Football Club. Despite administration, and losing a very good group of players, mostly to us, you have gone to show what a great football club you are. You should be proud of yourselves. Well Done Carl. RIP Michael.
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As a Morecambe fan I would just like to say what a nice guy Carl is and how nice a man Mike was. Carl gave everything to our club and Mike was also very supportive, so to hear about his death is a sad loss.
All Morecambe FC fans thoughts are with the Baker family.
Keep up your great start to the season Carl!!!
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I lost my Mum 7 years ago to Lukemia and this story pulled on the old heart strings a little for me definately in the right way, What a great story of character,heart and bravery. This story should be shown to the multi-million pound brats that currently grace many of the top leagues (im a Man City fan so i know)
Just wanted to say well done Stockport and good luck Carl Baker a great role model and glad to see he is doing well.
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I was at the ground and he looks like a top quality footballer who I expect to see picked up by a championship side.
Of course it was never a penalty (thier other striker dived) but that is neither here or there the fact of the matter is he showed great character to even come to this game, here is hoping he has a good season and has more moments to put a smile back on his and his family's faces/
mg
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WE ALL NEED TO STOP NOW AND AGAIN TO REALISE HOW LUCKY WE ARE AND TO KNOW THAT GOOD PEOPLE OF THIS WORLD REALLY DO EXIST WHAT AN INSPIRING STORY ALL THE BEST TO ALL INVOLVED
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I lived in Stockport all my life, and although deciding to support Liverpool from a young age, Stockport County have always held a special place in my heart. I remember asd a boy the club would come into our school and coach us, give us free tickets to games for us and our families and encourage us to support our local 'friendly' football club - Stockport County. The tribute to Carl Baker is very much in keeping with the Stockport I know and love - its a football club that has the spirit to survive.
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Even as a Yeovil Town fan you have to admire him. He showed great courage and was one of the best players on the pitch. I was at the game and it was never a penalty(definetely a dive). However, that doesn't matter at all because he showed all of the corage in the world to step up and take the penalty. His second goal was also a great finish. I would like to offer him and the rest of Stockport County all the best for the rest of the season.
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After being a stand out player at Morecambe FC for a year, I'm not surprised Carl baker is banging in the goals for Stockport. My heart goes out to him.
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Carl Baker epitomises what English Football is about and to remember his brother in such a poignant and tangible way shows that there is still plenty of heart in this great game. I wish him and Stockport County a successful season. He may yet end up in the premiership and if he does perhaps the over paid and egocentric stars may learn some lessons from him.
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very moving story
There is just one bit of the blog that's a little puzzling......why was it up to the Stockport Manager to break the news to Craig Baker that his brother had died? I would be extremely distressed if the manager new of my brothers' death before I did.
I hope that bit in the blog is a mistake......
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oops sorry got Carl's name wrong
my apologies
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This story is deeply sad and the player and club deserve great credit with how they have dealt with the situation.
But I dont understand why its being used as an opportunity for people to slag off the Premiership. When sad things have happened to players and people involved who have been associated with that league, they have also been treated with just as much class.
The outpouring of emotion was there for Bobby Robson's death and Kevin Fahey, whose dad died prior to the Birmingham Derby yesterday, but still pulled on his clubs shirt the same way Chris Baker has.
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Hello,
Many thanks for all the comments about the blog - and I'd again like to extend my best wishes to Carl and his family.
The story seems to have sparked some kind of debate regarding the difference between lower league and Premier League football.
I did not write this piece to have a dig at rich clubs (there are lots of other ways to do that), more to highlight Carl's courage and the efforts made by Stockport.
Some of you have quite rightly pointed out that several Premier League players have shown great courage in turning out so soon after tragic events have happened in their family. How a player reacts to the death of a loved one is not defined by the division they play in.
What I would ask is this - would it be possible for supporters of a large club to express so directly their sympathy if the same thing happened to a player at, say, a top four club? I think the supporter-player bond is tighter the lower down the leagues you go. I'm not saying this is the fault of bigger clubs, just the way it goes when you have 50,000 turning up every week.
By the way, if you want to see Carl's goals on Saturday click on this link:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_2/8253694.stm
ps - leahcar2009, I don't think that is a mistake - I'm going to try to find out why.
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Bakes is a credit to Stockport County. A True proffesional and a good man. I can't begin to imagine what he and his family are going through, and i hope he knows he has an even bigger family for support - the whole of Stockport County AFC
I'm glad we're doing what we can for lukemia research as well.
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Excellent blog
This is what sport is all about passion. As soon as money is involved in anything it quickly gets corrupted. Great to hear about the fans signing a card for Carl. I hope the BBC gives this story more coverage.
I recommend to everyone to apply to be on the bone marrow registry. It only takes a small amount of your time. On the rare chance that you match someone you can give them a gift greater than anything, time.
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Paul,
I believe Gary Ablett had to inform Carl as it happened during training. No other reason
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What a brilliant story. Well done Stockport. I really hope this gets noticed by the BBC and shown on Match of the Day or Football Focus so it gets to a wider audience. Genuinely heart-warming.
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This story has just been brought to my attention thanks to a friend of mine - this goes to show the sometimes selfish & money obssessed culture of the premiership how to show a brave example of player support - what this man has gone through & his ordeal is heartbreaking - but also such an inspiration to millions who truely love & support football for all the right reasons like sportsmanship & true players whom earn a legend status.
Although Stockport County may bot be a club which is in the Premiership - this story warrants them a place at the top of any league for me - I hope that the clubs above county learn a valuable lesson about the value of life & just how precious it can be & how cruelly it can be taken away in just a mere moment.
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As a Stockport County fan, I can even express into words how proud this article makes me feel. We've had a very tough year, administration and the loss of a great manager who everyone at the club loved and everyone else seems to assume that we're straight back down to league 2 next season. However, even with our limited resources, everyone seems to be putting 100% into the club. Carl Baker has recently established himself as Stockport County's glimmer of hope (how satisfying it is to know that a struggling County player is currently top scorer in the country). Carl Baker is an inspiration to everyone, the fact he could keep such a cool head and yet make such a fitting tribute to his brother shows his class. Upmost respect and condolences to Carl and his family. I can only hope we don't lose him in January because it is an honour to have him at our club.
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As a County Fan, I would like to thank all the comments in support of our Carl Baker and our club. We are experiencing hard times on and off the pitch, fans, staff and players but we are there for each other.
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Brilliant. Just a pity there arent more 'human' instances in the game any more.
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Puts into perspective how football can bring everyone together. Well done Stockport, as a Mansfield Town fan its great to see a lower league making the headlines for all the right reasons, depsite tragic circumstances. Premier league take a look and stop being so pathetic. R.I.P Mike Baker and support goes out to Carl and his family.
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I can just see the Kop doing that for John Terry..........well actually maybe Micheal Owen.......it's a different world
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Wonderful blog and truly inspiring. Well done to Carl Baker and Stockport County. Good luck on the season. I'll be pulling for you lads here in the USA.
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Very moving piece. Deserves to be read all around the world.
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To Paul & AndyCountyfan
I just find it very strange and disconcerting that your manager would have to break the news to you about the death of a loved one - even if it did happen during training, it's still odd to have your manager tell you and not your mother....maybe it's me.....
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Very moving story that restores some faith in football for me and proves that there is some reality outside the inane world of SkySports, the EPL and the immoral amounts of money bandied about by the few at the top of the heap. Good Luck and to the lad and his family and God Bless them.
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Great blog!The game we love so much isnt dead after all!
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What a truly heart warming story, with all the stuff going on about people diving and stamping this really does go to show that football does have a caring side, well done to all at Stockport, players, manager and fans alike. And well done to you for writing such a moving story.
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As Huddersfield fan i was moved by this really heart warming blog. A great tribute to Carl and his brother.
Well done County fans and staff, the card was a lovely guesture.
Condolences to Carl and his family.
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This is without a shadow of a doubt the best and most poignant blog I have ever read, also very refreshing to read other members insightful and thoughtful comments. Respect to all concerned.
It truly does remind one of why you fell in love with football. It really is amazing in this day and age of recession and credit crunch's that a club such as Stockport in times of administration can be doing so much for such magnificent causes. I echo the sentiments of the poster who stated "it would be an honour to write a cheque to clear their debts"
I for one will be keeping an eye out for Stockports results this season and wish them all the success in the world for the coming season.
To the Baker family sincere condolences and may your bravery and humility see you through these very trying times.
God bless
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Not many 'jobs' would anyone return to 'work' so soon after such a tragedy....
Carl Baker had done himself, Stockport County, Football, and most importantly His Brother proud.
I am myself proud to be able to call him....One of our own..
ANIMO ET FIDE #12
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Well said blog, good luck to Stockport and best wishes to Carl & and his family ( I hope that a copy of these posts are given to them). Its heartwarming to see that despite the money being thrown at football and the "Business" its become (and needed to in certain ways) there are still clubs that value the individual (players and supporers) and a very loyal fan base supporting the teams through thick and thin.
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Stockport County, a small club with a huge heart who are an absolute credit to football.
It cannot have been easy for Carl to turn out against Yeovil, but the support he received from the travelling County fans must have helped him immensely.
Well done to everyone connected with the Hatters and a big thank you to Paul Fletcher for his excellent blog.
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I don't mean to be crass, but is there any video of this. It could serve as a lesson about values, teamwork, sport, life, to certain people perhaps.
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best blog ever! and post no. 60 - couldn't agree more!
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Carl Baker really is a credit to the club, the way Stockport went about it was first class and full credit to Gary Ablett for organising the card and all that. It must have been horrible for him to do that. The spirit shown by Carl and his family is phenominal. Everyone in the Stockport area should turn up for the game on Saturday, if not to support Stockport, to support Carl Baker, the recpetion he will get will be incredible. All these premier league fans who are commenting on this, anyone who is in the area should make the effort to go to edgeley park and help him out. The BBC should make this the main story, show the world Carls courage.
Here's to you Carl Baker...
***RIP Michael Baker***
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As a Southport fan, I can remember the first time I saw Carl play for us away at Worksop town, and I remember saying to my wife that day that he looked like a useful player. We were lucky to have Carl at Southport for 4 years before he got the move to Morecambe. A mark of the man is that he came to watch a Southport game only a couple of weeks ago, on Bank Holiday Monday. A mark of his brother Mike, and how he was a real football man, is that he continued to visit the Southport fans' internet forum long after Carl had left, and posted on there very recently. Thinking of Carl and his family, and wishing them some comfort in this very sad time.
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Wonderful blog - thanks for bringing this moving story to our attention, Paul!
Years ago, as a youngun, I used to watch all manner of football (both live & televised). Sadly, the only matches I watch now are those featuring my team (Manchester United) or my country (England). Now & again I'll watch an FA Cup game featuring a lower league club, hoping for an upset, and of course any summer tourney that might be on (across all age levels).
The main reason for my increasing disinterest, I reckon, is the over-hyping of the modern game and the antics of those paid to play it (& sometimes manage it, too). For an example close to home: as much as I loved Ronaldo for his skill and determination, his unsportsmanlike behaviour used to really get my goat. There are a stack of others in the top leagues of the world who suffer from the same disease, annoyingly.
However, an honest pro, late to the game, has just shown them the way forward. Karl Baker's brave appearance and subsequent man-of-the-match performance made for such wonderful reading. Bless you, Karl and bless Michael's memory & your bereaved family (thinking of your younger bro, too).
Here's also wishing Stockport County, near neighbours of my club, a safe future and one that allows them to continue their great work in the community & beyond.
Peace
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I have to givee great credit to the county fans. To care about our player and to all sign a card for him just shows how much they love the players and love the club. Baker has great courage to go out there. To the Baker family sincere condolences and I hope Carl's other brother can get better
RIP MIchael Baker
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Many thanks, Paul, for this magnificent story.
Sad that it occurred in such tragic circumstances.
Grateful though that this act of human kindness has not been missed.
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Top blog, really nicely put. Such a shame that the wrong football headlines make the news now and that stories of kindness fail to make the papers.
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What a fantastic, heartfelt article, Stockport fans, Gary Abblet and Carl Baker represent what football should be about.
RIP Mike Baker.
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Great article and a lovely gesture from the Yeovil fans. Carl Baker sounds like a very good player too!
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Paul, many thanks for bringing this very sad but uplifting story to our attention. Similar stories, I'm sure, occur everyday in life but it is the response of Stockport County Football Club and its fans that is really heartwarming.
It reminds me of the reaction of the Forest and Millwall fans when Colin Cooper (then back at Boro) tragically lost his wee boy.
Best wishes to Carl and his family and to SCFC.
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Stockport are a great club, I remember when they were relegated at Selhurst Park several years ago now, and the away fans started a 100+ person conga and just decided they'd enjoy the day out rather than wallow in self pity. It's very difficult to hear about young people 'moving on' of course, I hope Carl's brother, Carl himself & all at Stockport remain in good health.
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I live near Edgeley Park but support Carlisle, and when I went to watch Carlisle play Stockport I was quite impressed with their fans keeping up the noise throughout the game, and the players never appearing to give up, despite losing, and decided I'll have to go along to give them a cheer when there's a Carlisle game I can't make. This story has given me another reason to respect them - they seem to be demonstrating the right attitude all over.
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Excellent Blog. Being a Stockport fan of many years I have known the up's and down's of the club. But also the passion many players who have worn the shirt for us, and the reciprocation the fans give to the players as a result. Carl is no exception. When us, the fans, found out about Carl's family situation, we were wholeheartedly behind him, in his efforts to raise the awarness for Lukemia.
In this day and age of the Celebrity footballer in the top flight, and the huge amounts of money paid for and to them,yet their antics on the field that have many people squimring in horror and disbelief, Carl comes across as a breath of fresh air.
Carl, we congratulate you for your efforts, and yet, commiserate with you for your loss. You are an example to all that is good in the game.
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An incredible story, I echo all of the above comments about it gaining the recognition it deserves and call on anyone else touched by this to comment as maybe this will help this to happen.
All the best to Carl, his family, and anyone else going through anything similarly devastating.
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What a class act the Yeovil fans were with that gesture. Great credit must also go to the Yeovil backroom staff and Gary Ablett, they all must have been in on the card gesture.
I lost my nephew when he was just 11 but can only imagine the sort of emotion that Carl must have felt. I can honestly say that the whole article brought a tear to my eye.
It is true that the Premier League and the fans are detached from the lower leagues. The obsession with qualifying for europe and the battle for the top four (which could become the top six this year), as well as the tendency for once-solid clubs like Leeds and Southampton to spend beyond their means is perhaps the saddest thing about the last decade of football.
Of course I enjoy the quality that the top players offer and thoroughly enjoy watching La Liga and international football. However, as (admittedly, a part time) Wigan supporter, I often look round a half empty JJB (sorry DW) stadium and long for the days of Springfield Park. I still remember when Peter Beardsley came on as sub for Fulham and was in a totally different class.
That emotional attachment that the majority of the crowd have seems missing in all but the die hard derbies in the top leagues.
Credit again to all concerned and I hope Carl reads these lovely messages. Good luck for the future to all of the Baker family and credit again to Stockport, Yeovil and the beautiful game itself.
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Brought a tear to my eye. An amazing tribute from the Stockport fans, it is almost as if a player for stockport passed away. Mainly the Stockport fans hugging and weeping with Carl, its a amazing show of football apart of from millions being spent its beautiful moment of football.
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As a lifelong County fan, it has been devastatting to see some of the recent hardships our club has had to endure, its heart having been ripped out and left to die by some frankly unscrupulous businessmen. As any County fan will know, this summer was among the hardest imaginable for all concerned, not knowing whether we would even have a side to follow this year. This story, while unbelievably sad and hard on a truly wonderfully gifted individual - and by all accounts fantastic man - perhaps serves to highlight the amazing club and amazing fans at Edgeley Park. The club retired the number 12 shirt after our miraculous survival in 2006 in honour of the fans who stuck with the cause through absolute thick and thin and this story once again draws some deserved limelight on undoubtedly the most loyal supporters in the world. We have weathered some of the harshest storms imaginable and will continue to do so, in support of our town and our heroes, like Carl Baker, who do us proud every week.
The most heartfelt and sincere condolences to Carl and all of the Baker family - I write on behalf of Stockport as a town, a club and a family - we love you.
RIP Mike - many of us might not have known you but we will always remember you.
Animo et fide
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I have in the past couple of years given up on the English game and moved my support to Scottish football and to Rangers to support even if it's from afar down here in Dorset. I now have an English club to follow again, a club in so much financial difficulty and yet one with such caring boardroom staff, management, players and fans. Good on you Stockport for showing the so called top teams and overrated players in this country just what the game needs. I am sick to the eyeballs of the premierships prima-donna players and managers, thank heaven for Stockport and for players like Carl, what courage he has shown, what courage the board of the club are showing by donating so much revenue to such a worthy cause and also what a fantastic group of supporters, real football fans. My best wishes go to the Baker family, I shall be following County in the future and hope that the club will survive and prosper. I am sure they will with such people in their corner.
God bless all the Baker family and all at SCFC
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Once again you have found a cracking story down in the lower leagues. Things like this are far more interesting than the premadonnas in the Premiership.
I really want to congratulate Carl Baker for playing this weekend and paying such a great tribute to his brothers memory. I hope he continues to have a fantastic season and things can start to go just as well off the field as they seem to be going on the field. He should be proud that his talent is helping leukemia charities with his club helping to raise money.
Stockport deserve a huge mention for all the work they are doing for charity despite their financial troubles. They are a real credit to the game. Not only that, but the way that the club and the fans are supporting their player through such a tough time is heartwarming and if one positive can be taken from this tragic situation it is that Carl Baker seems to be at the best club he could possibly be at to help he and his family through.
I think I can speak on behalf of every football fan in the country when I wish the Baker family all the luck in the world and also wish Stockport County all the best in their efforts to solve their financial trouble and keep such a compassionate club involved in the game.
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10/10 for Baker and Stock port. It shows that football is not just about money, it's about the love of the game. Well done Baker!
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In reply to comment 73. I am Carls mother. I tried all i could to contact Carl to delivery the devastating news regarding the passing of his brother. Unfortunately players are noy allowed to carry their mobile phones whilst training. My only point of contact was through Stockport County Football Club. As i live 20 miles from Stockports ground and have another 4 sons to consider, i could not have left them to drive all that way to tell Carl in person. I only wish i could have. I cannot thank Stockport County FC enough for the way they have treated Carl and for their kind word at this time.
Thank you to all concerned and all the kind words of support
R.I.P MIKE BAKER
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Ms. Baker, can I just say what a fantastic job you have done at raising your sons, I can't say how sorry I am for your families loss and really wish you well during this time, The whole of Stockport County fans and staff alike are behind you, your family and Carl 1 million percent and by the sounds of it so are the whole footballing world, your son is a credit to football, you and your family and we're all proud of him at County.
RIP Mike Baker
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please make sure that this story gets full coverage in all the football press.
the childish behaviour of top-flight players is shown up by this dose of reality.
respect to the baker family.
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Paul,
Surely many would be interested in contributing whatever they can to both Baker's family and StockPort here? I mean, even a very meagre donation by here would be a welcome relief for the family?
Could this be set up by any chance?
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Marvellous blog Paul, thank you for writing so movingly about Carl Baker and his immense bravery. This is a truly heartwarming tale which deserves to be given as much publicity as possible. My thoughts are with Carl, his family and my very best wishes to his younger brother for a speedy recovery.
Just one other comment - to Iom_keith (poster 35) - the link to Matt Deighton's Just Giving fund raising for Leukemia Research isn't working -I'm not sure why and wondered if you knew Matt and could let him know somehow as it would be a great tribute if we could all contribute to such a worthy cause.
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Great article Paul thanks for bringing this story to our attention.
Heart felt condolences to the whole Baker family on your loss I only hope the younger brother makes a full recovery.
Shout out to our ex-reserve manager Gary Abblett and Stockport County for arranging a touching tribute and as a fan of Liverpool I wish Stockport well in there battle to get out of administration. Is there no scope for a money spinning friendly against an United or City XI to help out the Stockport cause?
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Great blog, best of wishes to Carl and his family.
C4L
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Stever1054, thanks for pointing that out, I think 'Just Giving' must be having a server problem.
We've got two Morecambe fans who are doing The Great North Run this weekend, one raising money for Brittle Bones because we have a well known young lad who is a fan, and Matty as mentioned in post 35 running for Leukaemia Research. Both of their donation pages are currently down, so please have another go later.
If everyone who has posted was able to donate £3 to 'buy a pint in memory of Mike and in tribute to Carl', the Leukaemia Research would be over £320 better off and hopefully a little closer to a cure.
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This story mean so much more to me than reading about diving cheating overrated Premiership prima-donnas.Best wishes to Carl Baker and his family and to a caring Stockport County FC.
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Whilst this story is very moving and sad and all my best wishes go out to Carl Baker and his family, I can't help but feel rather resentful towards this article.
The suggestion in the article and by many commentors that just because someone earns a lot of money at the top of the game and is a superstar, feels less hurt and compassion when a loved one dies (and that is what is incinuated by many, including the article author), is frankly offensive and ridiculous. Whether they act like a prat on the pitch or not is irrelevant.
As a Chelsea fan, the example I can give with a bit of detail is that of Frank Lampard. Shortly after when his mum died, in no more or less sad circumstances as Carl Baker's brother, he played in a massive match, the Champions League Semi Final. He showed the most amazing courage to step up and score a crucial penalty which led to very emotional celebrations. In the game prior to this, vs Man Utd, after scoring the Chelsea players ran to the dug out to unfold and all hold up a Chelsea shirt with Pat Lampard's name on it. I know there were many other happenings behind the scenes and Frank Lampard later cited Chelsea's genuine kindness surrounding his mother's death as the main reason for him staying at the club a year later.
With recent incidents such as Jack Collinson's father dying and Defoe's brother dying, I'm sure there are many other similar stories of players and teams in the Premiership where such tragedy, compassion and emotion has occured.
So please stop these comments and insinuations that a superstar in the Premier League, or club, would not act in the same heartfelt way as someone in a lower league if such a thing were to happen to them and just take and comment the article for what it is; a terribly sad and tragic time for Carl Baker and his family.
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The FA have launched this RESPECT campaign.....Well i dont know about you but this is a perfect example of Respect. A great show of support to a dedicated footballer...
Its just a shame that all of those prima donnas playing in the upper tiers of the so called Premier League and Championship today, and who can bid £80K for a watch at an auction on a whim, should really look at themselves.. Respect to Carl.
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This article is surely proof that the football league has maintained some of it's grass roots. The fact that the Stockport away fans wrote a card to Carl Baker show that they actually feel valued by the club and that the player would be interested in their thoughts. When you see this and think of the idiotic behaviour of a 'star' like Adebayor on Saturday it certainly puts things in to perspective.
If Carl Baker was playing for one of the 'big 4' then you can guarantee that he would have been on the back page of the papers. Instead Carl Baker will be seen by many football league fans as a human being. A trait all too uncommon in footballers these days.
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What an absolute honour it is to be associated with this club right now. There has been so much negative of late, of course the threat of no team to watch this season being the main one of them.
Much can be written about the premier league, the primadonnas, the diving, stamping, but this blog shouldn't be seen in this light, or even mentioned in the same breath, they are totally seperate issues, and i'd go as far to state that this happens across every league, whether it be in this country or elsewhere.
One point I would like to make, is that no matter the team we support, the team we hate, the goings on in football, one thing that is clear as day, is that some things, such as the tragic loss of Mike Baker is much more important than the beautiful game.
At Stockport, we are like a family, sharing emotions, both high and low, and it is one of the things that makes us to be the club that we are. Had Carl chosen, quite understandably in my opinion, to have missed the game on Saturday, that would have been acceptable, but the fact that he chose to play, to go out there and make his family, and brother, along with SCFC fans so proud, goes to show the type of person and player that he is. What an abolustely brave young man, I cannot imagine the pain he is going through.
The card and the shirt were both a very fitting tribute to such a supportive brother, he only had to go becuase heaven was short of angels.
Much love to Carl, and the whole of the Baker family, and best wishes for a speedy recovery for his younger brother.
*****REST IN PEACE MIKE*****
xxxxx
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Carl, his family and everyone to do with Stockport County are what I would call people of honour!
I reckon Mike is watching his brother with happiness and pride..........and everyone should have the initiative to take something from this and learn what being human is all about.
Stockport spirit is strong and will continue to grow.
All my love and respect go to County.
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In response to Frank_Lambrose (post 112), I agree that every player, regardless of name, paycheck, club or league, feel pain and loss in the same way, and each and every individual and family to suffer a tragic loss like this deserves all our respect, sympathy and condolences, and there is no suggestion that these feelings are heightened merely by the fact that we are closer to the grass roots of football... I think the most prominent aspect of the article, and one that Paul Fletcher tries to convey again in a later post, is of the sacrifices made by Stockport County in order to care for our player, and his family, when they most need it - through support for Leukaemia Research - despite the fact that the club itself is in the most dire of financial straits and, if it were a more selfish outfit, keep the 30% of advertising revenue we donate to a truly worthy cause.
I think you are missing the point, Frank_Lambrose, that it is all relative - I am sure Chelsea and Mr Abramovich is happy to donate a six-figure sum to charity, and congratulations to them, it is a noble thing for anyone to do, yet as a proportion of their overall turnover, it barely causes a ripple. That 30% for us is like Chelsea giving over £100m+... County is struggling to exist, yet still puts the welfare, health and wellbeing of its players, families and staff as a priority above the financial aspects. THAT is what makes this story so amazing and restores so many people's pride in the game we love - inevitably many people are drawing links to 'prima donnas' and spoilt Premiership players, but that is by-the-by.
Once again, love, respect and condolences to the Bakers, I am so pleased, and proud, that Stockport County, as a club, and the entire footballing community, as represented on this page, has been able to show so much support and unity in your time of need.
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Proud to be British.
This article just typifies the Britishness of Our Football Leagues. Unfortunately, this is what the Prem is lacking as it is full of mercaneries. Well done Paul, Well done Carl and Stockport and my heartfelt condolances.
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Shropshire Blue (post 117). I understand what you are saying here, but I am not missing the point of the article. In fact, I think the point I am making is being missed.
There is no doubt what Carl Baker and Stockport have done is very commendable, but what I am expressing is my resent towards the definite insinuation made by this article and many posters that the same hurt, pride, courage, emotion etc is not felt/expressed by the stars and clubs of the Premiership. I am saying that in situations like this, money is totally irrelevant.
I think you reach a point of thin ground also when you compare the amounts someone like Chelsea donate in comparison to what Stockport have done. Obviously what Stockport have done is great, by for people to be critical of big clubs not donating similar proportions is hypercritical...for example I am sure there are millions of people who earn less than me and you but donate a higher proportion of their earnings to charity, does that make me and you bad people or 'prima donnas'? As you say, it is all relative.
I don't want to digress from what is a wonderful story in essence, but it is interesting you quote turnover comparisons between clubs like Chelsea and Stockport, when Chelsea for example made a loss of £60ish million last financial year. On that basis, Chelsea have less disposable money than Stockport to donate to charity!
As I said, I don't want to divert the conversation from the touching story of Carl Baker and his family here, all I am saying is that whilst the Premiership clubs and their players do have many faults, to try and suggest that they feel/express less emotion etc in tragic circumstances such as this, than those of lower league clubs purely based on their salary and status and the silly way some of them act on the pitch (and I must add here that the lower leagues aren't full of angels either by the way) is very unfair and actually quite offensive (particularly to those of them who have lost loved ones).
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Credit to Carl Baker for playing he's a class act.
My thoughts are with Carl and his family.
The card from the STOCKPORT supporters was a lovely touch.
Money can buy you many things but it can't buy you class! Its a shame that the local community has ignored Stockport Countys recent plight. There is a tremendous spirit amongst the fans despite being on its knees.
If you live in the area turn your back on the greedy Premier League and support this fantastic club.
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Frank_Lambrose (posts 112 and 119) - I am genuinely sorry that you feel that way about the article.
I agree with you when he say that it would be wrong to suggest that highly-paid players with a big media profile somehow do not feel the loss in the same way as a lower division player when someone close to them dies. I tried to make that point earlier (post 60).
I think it would also be wrong to suggest that Premier League clubs don't care when something like that happens to one of their players.
I think what this article has tapped into is a feeling among some supporters that the supporter-player bond is stronger in the lower leagues. I think that, in many but not all cases, the lower down you go the closer many fans are to the players. The interaction between Carl and the Stockport fans who had signed a card for him hints at this. Apparently it was a very emotional moment, with many fans hugging the player. I'm not saying that Chelsea fans did not feel the same way for Frank Lampard after he lost his mother but I don't think they would have had the same opportunity to so personally express their condolences.
I think that alot of people have been turned off from top-flight football because of some of the figures (of money) involved. They can no longer relate to it and, as clubs have become global brands, the way in which they functioned as a centrepoint of a community has changed.
I'm not saying this is the fault of the clubs - and I'm sure that clubs in the Football League would rather be in the Premier League. It is the way the game has evolved at the top level and some supporters obviously feel it has lost something that was important to them.
Given that you are a Chelsea fan I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on how changing the clubs has changed over, say, the last 20 years.
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I am a Man Utd fan but because Stockport is close by I always keep an eye out for them. They've had plenty of hard times as have many clubs in the lower leagues, but i have to say it humbles me and no doubt everyone who has read this article that such selflessness exists in football still.
My thoughts are with the whole family.
Shame this story will never see more than just this blog (which is the most well written blog i've ever read on BBC) and that people from the bigger teams won't be doing everything they can to follow Stockport and Yeovil's impressive behaviour!!!
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Superb blog.
I'm sure that all Bury FC supporters would like to pass on their condolences to Carl Baker and his family at this sad time and also their best wishes to Carl's younger brother in his fight against this cruel disease. In these dark days may the good lord shine his countenence upon them and give those that mourn comfort.
Rest In Peace Mike Baker.
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A fantastic blog and my heart goes out to the Baker family. I do hope that all the positive comments help the family at this sad time.
To the few bloggers who make comments about the premier league players, I used to raise money for local children's hospitals and have met a few premier league players who spend a lot of time at the hospitals and never get any praise. One in particular used to go most afternoons after training but the media was always putting him down for being in a local pub in the evening.
The most important thing has to be the great courage of Carl Baker and I hope he takes a lot of satisfaction from all the comments. Well done to everyone involved.
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Paul Fletcher BBC Sport wrote..
Given that you are a Chelsea fan I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on how changing the clubs has changed over, say, the last 20 years.
Yeh, I bet that has got him searching Wikipedia right now for Information !
Don't worry Paul, I think the vast majority of people get the point you are making.
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Paul Fletcher BBC Sport wrote...
I think what this article has tapped into is a feeling among some supporters that the supporter-player bond is stronger in the lower leagues. I think that, in many but not all cases, the lower down you go the closer many fans are to the players. The interaction between Carl and the Stockport fans who had signed a card for him hints at this. Apparently it was a very emotional moment, with many fans hugging the player.
From being there when it happened it was a very emotional moment, even if Carl did his level best not to show it too much. It was a moment I wouldn't expect to see if I was a fan of a larger club. Things like this are the reason a lot of fans support lower league clubs.
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Only a silly comment and please don't take this as a serious comment.
I don't know where you would be able to get a card that all the travelling away supporters could sign if you are a follower of Man U. and I certainly wouldn't like to lick the envelope
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Re post 127.
Maybe just a silly complaint but I don't think given the context of the blog that it's very appropriate. Before writing this i'm sure you could have thought it could easily offend.
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Not in the same league, but I had an experience watching Leicester in the FA Cup Quarter Final against Wycombe in 2001 that made me feel proud to be a football fan. We fully expected to win easily, but Leicester were poor, and Wycombe played out of their skins. Roy Esahdoh scored their winner late in extra time, after being signed (I believe) after Sanchez saw an advert for his services on Ceefax. A fairy tale ending. At the end of the game I, along with half the home fans, stayed behind to applaud the Wycombe players off the pitch. Sanchez had the decency to take a lap around the pitch acknowledging the Leicester fans. Travelling home down the M40, (I live in Southampton), the radio phone in was like a love in with Foxes fans ringing to say how deserved the Wycombe victory was, and Chairboys ringing to say how gracious Leicester were in defeat. A very strange day indeed.
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Paul Fletcher - Thank you for your response. My comments were essentially aimed at commentors of your blog, although I do still feel you are trying to insinuate what I have written about, but I appreciate your remarks.
I think we are losing focus of what the story is truely about so I don't want to go on too much, but I think I make a very valid point. And for posters like borocol (#125), I am certainly not missing the point of the article and it's actually people like you and comments like yours where you assume I am some sort of glory hunter just because I support Chelsea is where my frustration comes from....I am a Chelsea fan, therefore I must be a glory hunter and know nothing about Chelsea; Prem players who earn 100K a week therefore don't care about others as much as those who earn less/have lower status, even in the tragic circumstance of losing a loved one; Prem teams are money driven and therefore don't care about their players' (or fans') well being. As I said in my previous posts, the money in the Premiership is the root of many faults of those involved, but it is unfair and offensive to try and draw comparisons between the gulf in football players and thier clubs using this unfortunate scenario.
Paul - As for Chelsea over 20 years, I can honestly say that even back then there was no real player-fan bond. They were still watched by 20,000+ per match (a figure that still watch Norwich in League 1 so I'm sure they couldn't have the opportunity to show their condolences in such cirmumstances either), they still earned a very good wage and they were still stars and adored by many people - something I certainly couldn't relate to. But I didn't start supporting Chelsea because I could relate to their players - I don't think anyone does that - I supported them because they were my local team, because I was able to go and watch them with my Mum and Dad. And I cheered every goal, ultimately because I wanted them to be where they are today.
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I'm not sure why the Yeovil fans are being shown as having as much class as Stockport fans? I wasn't at the game, but did see the football league highlights. After the penalty was scored and Carl ran over to hold up the t-shirt, all I heard was booing from the Yeovil fans. I'm assuming it was for the dodgy penalty given and scored, however there is nothing in that blog to say that they were a class act (comments 5 and 97).
However, Stockport County are a class act, and I will be looking out for their results in future.
Their good grace and willingness to help a player's problems, shows they are a superb club.
RIP Mike Baker.
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Fantastic effort by Stockport County to highlight this disease and to the Yeovill fans for a top response, lets hope his younger brother can put up a brave fight and come through this.
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As a supporter of both Chelsea and County I see both worlds and it is nonsense to suggest that there is no real passion towards the top of the pyramid. County beating Rochdale at Wembley in 2008 felt neither more nor less special than, say, Chelsea winning the FA Cup in 2009. Chelsea have not always been a successful side and those of us older than 14 can remember when winning the 1997 FA Cup felt like as good as it would get.
County has always had a special atmosphere at Edgeley Park, it is one of the friendliest grounds in England and I know that Stockport pubs welcome visiting supporters before matches. We have a small following as we are dwarfed by two massive clubs in Manchester – we used to play home matches on Fridays to avoid missing out on spectators in the days when working people could afford more than one match on a weekend.
If there is a criticism of Premier League culture, it is that fans of opposing clubs may not be so respectful towards a bereaved opposition player as those in League One. Winning the Premier League and the Champions League is treated like the only thing that matters. As a Chelsea fan I'm proud to say that we, on the whole, still value winning domestic cups and still support England, unlike many Manchester Utd and Liverpool fans who see the international game as a distraction.
There is a bond between players and fans at the top level, despite what people may think. I recall the applause for England's support after the Andorra match, when the London transport strike had made the match difficult to reach.
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Reply to 128.
Please don't take my previous blog as offensive. I totally applaud the supporters of Stockport and Yeovil and the fantastic thing that Carl Baker did by playing the game. My comment was not aimed to be disrespectful to anyone concerned. Like everyone else that read the article and the comments, I have been moved to tears. Without wanting to sound unfeeling, I know from personal experience that a smile does help to take the bitterness from the tears. Please beleive me that I did not been to be offensive or thoughtless
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Really touches the heart reading about this...
My thoughts go out to the Baker family..
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Hello - I just wanted to pass on my thanks to everybody who has taken the time and trouble to wish Carl and his family well.
I have never met or spoken to Carl before but a few minutes ago he telephoned me. He said that he went around to his parent's house on Monday evening, where they read through all the comments on the blog.
Apparently the family were really touched and it provided some comfort for them about this difficult time. I think it speaks volumes of Carl as a person that he took the time and trouble to call and say thanks to everyone.
Again, I cannot but wish him and his family well.
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A really touching story. He has my utmost respect for dealing with the tragedy of losing his brother in such a courageous way. It really puts into perspective the events of last weekend - while we were all focused on the events of a certain person at Man City, or singing the praises of our own players, Carl Baker proved himself to be the real hero - not just of this particular weekend, but for a long time. As the supporter of a Premier League club, I too often forget about what goes on in the lower leagues. Yes, of course these kind of tragedies can happen to anyone, including Premier League players and their families. But I'm sure we'd have heard much more about it had that been the case.
The actions of Stockport County FC should be highly commended, especially given their current financial situation. They have shown that some things are more important than football, something we are all to often guilty of forgetting. It would be great to see one of Stockport's more illustrious neighbours (City, United) put their hands in their deep pockets and help them out.
Congratulations Stockport, your fans and, most of all, Carl Baker. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
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Re Paul - post 136.
That is lovely to hear, and although not expected just adds to the opinion that he is an amazing person as well as footballer.
xx
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I found this blog to be very touching and my heart goes out to Carl and his family, stay strong mate, you are doing a great job and what a person you really are Carl. Thoughts go out to you.
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An awesome article Paul thank you.
It is so nice to see the real character of the football family come out.
I am starting to follow the lower leagues more than the prem now.
As for Carl Baker. You are a Legend. A truly brave man who has honoured his brother. Best wishes mate to your family, especially your other brother, and yourself.
I'm a new Stockport fan. Come on County!
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My complaint is why the BBC could not understand and appreciate the significance of what has been so articulately written and move the article to a more prominant spot on the sports pages.
Surely this has to be one of the most worthy and well written articles ever to appear on BBC football. Well done Paul.
Come on BBC, give this the prominance it deserves.
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Pure class.
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This documentary doesn't deal with blood cancer diseases but does deal with a potential cure for other cancers. worth watching or maybe worth passing onto to someone that may be suffering. www.phoenixtearsmovie.com
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Created this account just to comment on this article. My thoughts go to all of the Baker family. Brilliant to hear that the away fans made the card. It is wonderful to hear of such touching humanity. Again, all my best, and well done Fletcher on an excellent article.
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Oh, and the behaviour of Stockport County in this situation seems to have been absolutely exemplary. Hats off to all involved, that shows wonderful spirit of heart.
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I applaud all involved - Stockport County club and supporters, Yeovil Town supporters and most especially Carl Baker.
What an example to younger kids! Far more so than anyone I can think of in the PL. I hope that the FA/Football League already have their eye on a post for Carl when he retires from playing the game.
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As a proud stockport county fan my thoughts are with carl and his family.
Many a times i have taken stick for supporting my local team from mates who "follow" our close premiership teams, but if they only realised the spirit and pride that goes along with supporting your "useless" local team then maybe they would think again.
we have been through some very hard times recently but a strong core of our fanbase stuck with OUR club every step of the way.
its about time stockport county got a bit of coverage for the passion, pride, loyalty and the way we try to play real football got some recognition.
i wish it wouldnt have taken the tragic death of a players family to bring this to light though...and again, my thoughts are with you carl.
stockport county is and always has been a touch of class, i and the other small army of die hard fans have known this all along.
will stop going on now, so will finish with once again wishing carl and all his family my best wishes.....
i o county....county i o
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A very moving article. As a Crystal Palace fan, the story brought back memories of Geoff Thomas' fight against leukaemia a few years ago. Geoff was one of the lucky ones who beat the disease, and he has gone on to do fantastic work raising awareness of it with the Geoff Thomas Foundation. This was recognised by the BBC when Geoff was given the Helen Rollason award at one of the Sports Personality of the Year events.
Palace did their bit as well, staging re-matches of our 1990 FA Cup semi-final and final against Liverpool and Manchester United to raise money for the charity.
On a final note, let us all hope that Carl Baker's other brother manages to win his battle, and I'd like to wish Carl and Stockport the best of luck for the rest of the season.
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The best thing that I have read on the BBC website in ages. It deserves to be read by a much wider audience than this. A proper football story that reaffirms the reason that a lot of us love the game that at the top level has ceased to be.
Stockport County FC, Gary Ablett, the fans and most of all Carl and Mike Baker's family should be very proud.
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In response to comment 131 the boo's that were heard was entirely because of the(wrong) penalty decision, i know my views (on carl's brother) are shared with everyone at YTFC, staff and fans. Its a very sad story but the courage shown by Carl and his family is remarkable.
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I use to go to collage with Carl and he was brilliant person to be around and amazing footballer and he was so focused at his footballer and determined to do well, he will just be loving the football life and appricating every minute. Its sooo sad hearing about his brother and him playing is whathis brother would want as thats where carl is at hus best..Am so proud of him, hes credit to football. xx
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ANIMO ET FIDE
Translate.......
Enough said...
ANIMO ET FIDE #12
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How odd. This is exactly what Jack Collison of West Ham did several weeks ago, only it was his father, who was killed in a motor cycle accident, so Collison had no warning. Yet Collison played without being pressured either. The only difference being, his story didn't seem to warrant a news story, so it was left to WH supporters to mark his courage and how he was a credit to the sport
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this is lovely. it's the best thing i've read in ages, and touched my heart. my condolences to baker and his family, sincerely.
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All the best to Carl and his family - I especially wish his younger brother well in his own battle.
I am not a County fan, but I have been to see them many, many times away from home as a mate of mine is a big County fan. I have never had the pleasure of attending a football match with as good a bunch of people. It does not surprise me in the least what they did. Next County game I'll see is Brentford on the 24th October - looking forward to it!!
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Best wishes to the Baker family.
I'm sorry for your loss.
Freddie from Downunder,Morwell Vic.
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This guy needs to be shown to the top teams and to show them that there wining diving and immature antics (adebayor) are getting them no where.
---------
What a stupid statement. in 99% of cases no matter whether this match was amateur, lower league or premier league the rection would have been exactly the same.
The top players are just as human as these guys are, it's only your jealousy that stops you seeing that.
Remember the reactions of top players after Marc-Vivian Foe's death? or Daniel Jarque's? To pretend that they would not behave in the same respectful way is just insulting to everyone's intelligence.
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hackerjack
Would every other club give 30% of advertising revenue away whilst in administration and struggling to survive itself though?
Carl Baker is an amazing human being, it is largely due to him that we have adopted lukemia support as our main chairty. What Carl has, which a fair chunk of greedy league players seem to lack, is respect. Respect for the game, for his fellow proffesionals and for the fans. The likelyhood is that he won't be at County for much longer(he's a class above us) but i'm sure he will always hold a special place for us in his heart
Animo Et Fide - Courage and Faith
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It would be a shame if these posts degenerate into a bitty argument
about the haves and have-nots.
It's not about one-upmanship. It's purely a story about unselfishness
and human nature of sticking together during tough times.
This happens to be a fine example.
Animo Et Fide.
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Superb and heart warming piece Paul. Carl started playing for Southport where I now live and he clearly always had promise. I used to live in Stockport so I am really pleased that he has come so good for County. Gary Ablett's decision to play him through the middle has been truly inspirational. Shame County lost so many good players in the last few months to financial difficulties - if they had of stayed County would be flying high now. It was always clear that Carl could play at a level above Southport's but I dont think any Sandgrounder fan expected him to be sold a couple of years after leaving to go to Morecambe for £200,000!! Good on Gannon for spotting his potential. If he carries on like this then who knows where he might end up. Let's hope that Carl's success is some small compensation for the genetic lottery that has so devastated his family.
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27. EKbhoyno1 wrote:
Carl Baker and Stockport County have a new fan. I'm humbled by this story, it restores faith in the football world and makes you realise that there are still real football people out there. I'm no Man City hater, but my first thoughts when reading this blog were; Adebayor, read this blog and then hang your head and your over inflated and overpaid ego in shame. Ghod bless the Baker family at this testing time.
43. Hainba wrote:
Having also noted the plight of Accrington Stanley - why for one weekend a season could the big fish not organise to support worthy grass roots causes such as these? Shame on those who watch these clubs struggle...
72. Vikelt wrote:
Very moving piece. Deserves to be read all around the world.
101. hugedictacus wrote:
I think I can speak on behalf of every football fan in the country when I wish the Baker family all the luck in the world and also wish Stockport County all the best in their efforts to solve their financial trouble and keep such a compassionate club involved in the game.
106. cyberpopeye wrote:
Surely many would be interested in contributing whatever they can to both Baker's family and StockPort here? I mean, even a very meagre donation by here would be a welcome relief for the family?
115. clarescfc87 wrote:
The card and the shirt were both a very fitting tribute to such a supportive brother, he only had to go becuase heaven was short of angels.
Just a few of the wonderful, deep, heart-felt comments. And they express my sentiments entirely.... Mrs. Baker and family, my heart is with you. Stockport, I'll be following your results and progress with a new - and humbler - slant.
Finally, in response to 112. Frank Lambrose's comments... With respect, I think YOU are missing the point; among others, it's about role models in society i.e. did anyone of the Chelsea players attending think about donating anything to anyone for anything when Jon Michl's(?) was presented with a disgracefully excessive - some reports put it at 125,000 thousand pounds - "bubbly" tab at his birthday celebrations? Further, this blog is not the place for such a debate.
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Paul, As described by many before me, your article describing the human courage of this young man and his family at their time of sorrow will be a massive boost to them, purely for the fact that you took the time to draft such a lovely piece of considerate journalism and receive so many complimentary blogs thereafter, I am sure the Baker family will treasure this forever. I am reading and writing this from Egypt and Cairo now has an ex pat Stockport County fan who will make it his business to attend a game when next in the UK. Thanks
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Superb blog Paul, this story puts the vast majority of sports-related news into perspective. Best wishes to Carl Baker & his family, and good luck to County for the rest of the season.
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Last season Carl didnt have the best of season. But this season he really is coming into his own on the pitch, and in under extemely difficult circumstances. But to echo what has been said by everyone here and on the terraces I am extremly sad for your loss. We have alot of admiration for you at County. Chin up Carl.
RIP MIKE BAKER
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I am so glad Carl and his family have read the heart warming comments from real football fans across the country. I am amazed that this story has not made the national press as it is a story that makes us all step back for a second and forget our rivalries to think about courage and strength that the lad Carl has shown.
I am a massive County fan and i want to thank everyone who has contributed to this thread and hope we have gained one or two "second team " fans.
It was the funeral today for young mike and i wish the Baker family my deepest condolances. Carl you are already a County legend in my eyes and i hope you will stay for seasons to come.
Mike Baker RIP
Carl my thoughts are with you and i will sing your name louder than any player before on saturday.
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On behalf of Carl his mum and rest of the Baker family, i would like to say a massive thank you to Gary Ablett his players,board and backroom staff for their representation today at Mikes funeral. Mike would have been so proud to have such essteemed players to see him off on his final journey, it would have meant the world to him. He would have been so proud.
Thank you again
The Baker family
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This article has clearly made a real impact. See this link:
http://www.htafc.com/page/NewsDetail/0,,10312~1800125,00.html
(Hope that works, if not go to the Huddersfield website news section) A great response from Huddersfield fans I think you'll agree.
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As the wife and Mum of county fan's (and therefore by complete default one too!) What a stunning blog - truly brought tears to my eyes, what an amazingly inspirational man. Proud to have him at Edgeley Park. RIP Mike. Best wishes to all the family.
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