A dynamic, pacey player, Perry primarily played as a winger, though he also featured as a striker on occasion.
Perry’s football journey began with a trial at Wolves as a schoolboy before signing as an apprentice for Colchester United in 1981. He turned professional a year later and over the next four seasons, played 142 league matches for the U’s, scoring 26 goals.
In September 1986, Perry made the move to Arsenal for £75,000, becoming the first signing under new manager George Graham. In his debut season, he played a pivotal role in the 1987 League Cup final, setting up Charlie Nicholas for the winning goal with a brilliant dribble past three Liverpool defenders.
Known for his tireless work ethic and enthusiasm, Perry started the majority of Arsenal’s games during the 1987-88 season. He also scored the decisive goal in the away leg of the semi-final against Everton, which helped Arsenal reach another League Cup final, although they were defeated by Luton Town. Despite making 46 appearances that season, the arrival of Brian Marwood reduced his playing time, and he was often used as a substitute in Arsenal’s title-winning 1988-89 season, coming off the bench 15 times alongside 6 starts.
Injuries to Marwood in 1989-90 allowed Perry to regain a starting role, but he returned to the bench once Marwood recovered. Nevertheless, he earned a second league title winner’s medal in 1990-91, though again most of his appearances were as a substitute.
As Arsenal’s style became more defensive under Graham, Perry found himself sidelined more frequently. After making just 13 league appearances in 1991-92, he was sold to Southampton.
Perry moved to Southampton in 1992 for £750,000 but struggled with injuries, making only 15 appearances in two years before retiring from professional football at just 28, following two serious Achilles tendon injuries. He briefly played four games for Dagenham & Redbridge in the Conference before retiring for good.
Perry continues to be involved in football, regularly appearing for Arsenal in the London Masters Football tournament and offering his insights on TalkSport Radio.
He became a cult figure among Arsenal supporters, who sing the chant “We all live in a Perry Groves World,” celebrating his versatile role in the team. He is fondly remembered, with a fan club and website dedicated to him. Perry also published his autobiography, We All Live In A Perry Groves World, in 2006.
