1998–99 in English football gets the manager's job on a permanent basis. 28 October 1998 – Chelsea player-manager Gianluca Vialli scores a hat-trick in the 4–1 League Cup third round win over Aston Villa. Making his debut as a late substitute is 17-year-old defender John Terry. On the same day, striker Brian Laudrup's departure from Chelsea is announced after just four months at the club. 31 October 1998 – Ron Reeves, a 55-year-old steward, is killed outside Highfield Road stadium after being crushed by the Arsenal team coach just before a game with Coventry City. The month ends with Aston Villa still top, a
1981–82 in English football 1981–82 in English football The 1981–82 season was the 102nd season of competitive football in England. It was also the first season that the three-points-for-a-win system was introduced. 13 July 1981: Everton sign 22-year-old goalkeeper Neville Southall from Bury for £150,000. 19 August 1981: Brighton & Hove Albion sign Liverpool midfielder Jimmy Case for £350,000. 29 August 1981: The first Football League games of the season are played. Swansea City begin life as a First Division side on a high note by beating Leeds United 5–1. Promoted Notts County win 1–0 at Villa Park against defending champions Aston Villa. Howard