Background
Whitehead was born in the Bordesley Green district of Birmingham.
Whitehead was born in the Bordesley Green district of Birmingham.
When he left school in 1967, he joined Birmingham City as an apprentice, and turned professional two years later. As a junior he played on the wing, but became most comfortable in central defence. He made his first-team debut in the Anglo-Italian Tournament in 1971, and played his part in Birmingham"s promotion to the First Division in the 1971-1972 season.
He played only once in the top flight, and joined KV Mechelen in 1974.
Whitehead"s brother Clive was also a professional football player who had a long Football League career with clubs including Bristol City and West Bromwich Albion.