John Ryan (footballer, born 1947)  John Ryan (born 20 July 1947) is an English former professional footballer who predominantly played as a full-back. Ryan had a professional career that lasted more than 20 years. He first joined Arsenal from non-league side Maidstone United in 1964, though he never played a first team game for Arsenal, instead playing in the reserves before being released in 1965. He went on to have spells with Fulham (1965–69), Luton Town (1969–76), Norwich City (1976–80), Sheffield United (1980–82), Manchester City (1982–83), Stockport County (1983), Chester City (1983–84) and Cambridge United (1984–85), where he also had a spell as manager. Ryan also played in the US for Seattle Sounders and after leaving Cambridge returned to Maidstone United. He went on to manage Sittingbourne, Dover Athletic and Dulwich Hamlet.