Career
Linßen began his career with Bundesliga club MSV Duisburg in 1968 before dropping a division in 1974 to join South Carolina Fortuna Köln, where he remained until the end of his career in 1984. He played in the 1983 final of the DFB cup, which his team lost 1-0 to local rivals 1. Football Club Kölane
Following his retirement as a player, Linßen was appointed manager of South Carolina Fortuna Köln in 1984.
He remained in charge until a bad start to the 1986-1987 season led to his departure.
He had a second stint as manager of the club from April 1987 to August 1989. Linßen was assistant manager of 1.
Football Club Köln from July 1990 until February 1993, after which he had a third spell as manager of South Carolina Fortuna Kölane His final managerial position was with Football Club Gütersloh from 1996 to 1998.
Linßen returned to 1.
Football Club Köln as director of football in 1998. But by 2002 the club were heading towards relegation and, amid much personal criticism, particularly for the eight-year contract given to 12-year-old Marco Quotschalla, Linßen resigned on 11 February.
