Mark Crossley

Mark Crossley, affectionately known as "Big Norm", is a former professional footballer, international goalkeeper and goalkeeping coach whose distinguished career spanned more than two decades. Renowned both for his achievements on the pitch and his larger-than-life personality off it, he has become one of the most entertaining and sought-after after-dinner speakers on the corporate and sporting circuit.

Best known for his 13 years with Nottingham Forest, Mark established himself as one of the country's most respected goalkeepers, making almost 400 appearances for the club and becoming their first-choice keeper during the early 1990s.

A Wales international, Mark earned recognition for his reliability, shot-stopping ability and composure under pressure. He remains the only goalkeeper ever to save a penalty from legendary Southampton striker Matthew Le Tissier, whose remarkable penalty record is widely regarded as one of the finest in football history.

One of the defining moments of Mark’s career came in the 1991 FA Cup Final, where he saved a penalty from Gary Lineker, becoming one of only three goalkeepers to achieve that feat in an FA Cup Final. Throughout his time at Nottingham Forest, he played under the iconic Brian Clough, whose management style and unforgettable personality provided Mark with a wealth of stories that continue to entertain audiences today.

Following his successful spell at Forest, Mark went on to play for Middlesbrough before joining Fulham in a £500,000 transfer. He later enjoyed spells with Sheffield Wednesday and Oldham Athletic, where he combined his playing career with coaching responsibilities. His final playing role saw him join Chesterfield as both player and goalkeeping coach, continuing to pass on his experience to the next generation.

Internationally, Mark was a regular member of the Wales squad during an era that included legendary goalkeeper Neville Southall. Although opportunities were limited, he earned several international starts, with one of his most memorable performances coming in Wales’s impressive 4–0 victory over Scotland.

Today, "Big Norm" is one of the funniest and most popular speakers on the after-dinner circuit. Famed for his razor-sharp wit, hilarious dressing-room anecdotes and uncanny impressions of Brian Clough, Mark offers audiences a unique insight into life under one of football's greatest managers. Combining humour with stories from an outstanding playing career, he delivers an unforgettable performance that has made him a favourite at corporate events, sporting dinners and charity functions across the UK.

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