Matt Piper is forever cemented in City folklore for scoring the last goal at Leicester City’s old stadium Filbert Street.
Piper graduated through The Foxes academy and made his debut for the club in October 2001 at the age of 20.
The former City wide player went into the media after his playing career and is the co-commentator for BBC Radio Leicester.
Piper is a popular figure among the Leicester fan base and his opinions on the radio and on his personal X account are held in high regard.
Here’s a deep dive into the life and career of Piper, including answers to all of your frequently asked questions.
Matt Piper personal profile
- Full name: Matthew James Piper
- Age: 42 (29 September 1981)
- Birthplace: Leicester, England
- Height: 6′ 1″ (1.85m)
- Position: Right midfield
- Number: 7, 21, 23, 29 and 32
Who did Matt Piper play for?
Piper played for three clubs during his career, Leicester City, Mansfield Town and Sunderland. The 42-year-old made just over 40 appearances in professional football before retiring in 2006 at the age of 24.
Why did Matt Piper retire?
The jet-heeled winger sustained a number of serious injuries following his £3.5m to the Stadium of Light in 2002.
Piper underwent 13 operations throughout his injury-stricken career and eventually called time on it in 2006 after being sidelined for three seasons.
Speaking to the Leicester City website, Piper explained why he wasn’t able to recover: “I now know, 13 operations later, that the problem was due to lax ligaments, which let my knee slide around, causing damage to cartilage, ligaments and tendons.
“My good friend Joleon Lescott had the same operation at the same time with the same surgeon. His op worked. Mine didn’t.”
What does Matt Piper do now?
Piper released an autobiography in 2020 titled ‘Out of the Darkness’, which tells all about his career in football.
He also works for BBC Radio Leicester as a co-commentator and is often seen at King Power Stadium in the press box with colleague Owynn Palmer-Atkin.
The pundit runs the FSD academy with ex-City youth player Owen Johnson. It serves to advance footballing ability, maximise academic potential and develop life skills for young people across the Midlands.
What is Matt Piper’s podcast?
Piper recently launched his own podcast called ‘Out Of The Darkness’ which provides awareness of mental health.
He also regularly features on the ‘When You’re Smiling’ BBC Radio Leicester podcast and shares his opinions and analysis with journalists and former City players.
What is Matt Piper’s Twitter?
The Leicester academy graduate often takes to X to share his opinions on all things Leicester City. His account can be found under the handle @_MattPiper.