Lyle Taylor: From the Montserratian Messi to a prolific fundraiser for cancer research
In short: Born in 1990, Lyle Taylor has navigated a nomadic professional football career spanning numerous English and Scottish clubs. Beyond his goal-scoring exploits and international appearances for Montserrat, he has become a notable figure for his distinctive pink-themed charity work and his outspoken stance on social and political issues.
Lyle James Alfred Taylor began his senior career at Millwall after progressing through the Staines Town youth academy. His path through the professional ranks was marked by frequent moves, including spells at AFC Bournemouth, Falkirk, Sheffield United, and Scunthorpe United. It was at AFC Wimbledon, however, that he truly found his stride. During his tenure there, he became the club's record Football League goalscorer with 44 goals, eventually tallying 55 goals in all competitions. His impact was such that author John Green dubbed him the Montserratian Messi on his podcast.
Taylor's career has been defined by both on-field success and off-field controversy. In 2019, he was the target of racist abuse on Twitter following a match against Bradford City. Conversely, he has generated significant debate for his refusal to participate in the EFL's take the knee initiative, characterizing the Black Lives Matter movement as a political agenda. Despite these polarizing views, he has maintained a consistent commitment to philanthropy, particularly through his support for Cancer Research UK. By dyeing his hair and wearing pink boots every October, he has raised £78,000 for the charity as of 2024.
The striker's international career began in 2015 when he was called up to represent Montserrat, a nation he is eligible to play for through his grandparents. He scored on his international debut against Curaçao in March 2015. His brother, Joey Taylor, is also a defender for the Montserrat national team. Following his departure from Colchester United in 2025, Taylor signed with National League South side Chelmsford City, continuing a career that has seen him play for a vast array of clubs across different levels of the English football pyramid.
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