Trusted by leaders
in sport and media.
Words from the people who know Lee Clayton’s work best — colleagues, clients and friends from across the sport and media landscape.
Lee is an exceptional journalist and leader. I have trusted and admired what he has achieved over many years. Beyond our numerous successful collaborations, I am proud to call him a friend. He brings a rare combination of skill, integrity, and adaptability that makes him a genuine asset to any organisation lucky enough to work with him.
When I was looking into buying a PL club, Lee came up on a list of famous fans, for some reason… Since then, more than 20 years later, he has become a great family friend and over many late nights, we have fought, argued and disagreed, but still we remain great allies; his loyalty is immeasurable.
Lee is one of those rare people who can hold a room without needing to take it over. He leads with calm authority, zero ego, and a steadiness that makes people trust him quickly. As a media pioneer, he understands the craft and the culture, but what sets him apart is how he shows up: as an ally, a supporter, and a doer. There’s a vulnerability to Lee that’s genuinely disarming, and it’s part of why people lean in. Then there’s the results. He moves things forward. He makes decisions. He delivers. If you want someone who can lead powerfully and humanly, Lee is it.
When we flew together on a private plane with Philippe Coutinho for his record transfer from Liverpool to Barcelona, it was unique access, a proper world exclusive and I saw close up how Lee delivers the big stories through his contacts but also the respect he garners and the empathy he has for all involved. I have covered six Olympic Games and five World Cups but have never been involved in a story like that.
It was a real pleasure to work with Lee on the book 'Farewell to Upton Park'. Having initially come up with the idea, his wonderful writing perfectly accompanied Andy Hooper's gorgeous images and the end result was a beautiful, evocative book. I look forward to working with Lee again and have no hesitation in recommending that others do the same.
I’ve known Lee since we were teenagers and I first met him at Bournemouth, before I moved to Liverpool. Since then, we’ve been around the block a few times in our professional and personal lives. The key word is trust. It’s a pleasure to call him my friend.
I’ve enjoyed working with elite people all of my football career - I like to think I know one when I see one. Lee became a hugely trusted friend and confidant as well as a colleague. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him. He makes a difference.
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