For a generation of Coventry City fans, Ian Wallace was the ultimate goalscorer. Small, tenacious, and blessed with fiery ginger hair and a lethal finish, Wallace was the “Little” to Mick Ferguson’s “Large.” Together, they terrorised First Division defences, with Wallace earning a reputation as one of the most clinical strikers in the country.
Signed from Dumbarton in 1976 for what turned out to be a bargain £40,000, Wallace adapted to English football instantly. His low centre of gravity, sharp turn of pace, and instinct for being in the right place at the right time made him a fan favourite. Below is the statistical record of his explosive four-year spell.
Key Player Vitals & Data
| Metric | Detail |
| Position | Striker |
| Coventry Career Tenure | 1976 – 1980 |
| Total Competitive Appearances | 140 |
| Total Goals | 60 |
| Strike Rate | Approx. 1 goal every 2.3 games |
| Signed From | Dumbarton (£40k) |
| Sold To | Nottingham Forest (£1.25m – Club Record Sale) |
| International Honours | Scotland (3 Caps) |
The 1977-78 Season
This was the peak of the Wallace-Ferguson partnership. Wallace scored 23 goals in all competitions, thriving on the knock-downs from Ferguson and the service from Tommy Hutchison. His ability to finish with both feet and his bravery in the box belied his small stature.
The Million Pound Man
Wallace’s goalscoring exploits did not go unnoticed. In July 1980, legendary manager Brian Clough paid £1.25 million to take him to European Champions Nottingham Forest. It was a landmark moment for Coventry City—the first time the club had received a seven-figure fee for a player.
International Recognition
Wallace’s form at Highfield Road earned him a call-up to the Scotland national team. He won three caps during his time with the Sky Blues, scoring on his international debut against Bulgaria.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was Ian Wallace’s strike partner? Ian Wallace played alongside Mick Ferguson. The pair were famously dubbed “Little and Large.” In the 1977-78 season alone, they scored a combined 40 goals.
How much did Coventry sell Ian Wallace for? In 1980, Coventry City sold Ian Wallace to Nottingham Forest for a then-club record fee of £1.25 million.
Was Ian Wallace Scottish? Yes, Ian Wallace was born in Glasgow and represented Scotland at international level. He was signed by Coventry from Scottish club Dumbarton.
How many goals did Ian Wallace score for Coventry? He scored 60 goals in just 140 appearances, giving him one of the best goals-per-game ratios in the club’s top-flight history.
