Signed From : Kettering (1st spell), Oldham (loan - 2nd Spell), Free Transfer (3rd Spell)

Debut : Lincoln City 1 Rushden and Diamonds 2 (23rd November 2002)

Richard Butcher joined a rare club when he signed on a third occasion for Lincoln City in the summer of 2009. His previous spells had all come during the infamous runs into the Playoffs for five years running, so the experience of coming into a side who will more than likely finish midtable will be something of a shock for the midfielder.

His love affair with the Imps started in the 2002/3 season when Kettering Town were in financial trouble and were unable to pay their players. Keith acted quickly on a clause that stated that if players aren't paid, they can give their club just two weeks notice before leaving. Butcher linked up with a rare sight under Keith Alexander, a midfield with more than two midfielders, alongside Peter Gain and Paul Smith.

His first season at Sincil Bank was fairly successful, scoring a few goals here and there before the Imps made it to the Playoffs. As good as the first season was, it was nothing compared to Butcher's second season at Sincil Bank, scoring for fun and bring a real goal-threat from 25/30 yards, as Mansfield found out. The season would again end in disappointment as City again failed in the Playoffs.

12 months later and exactly the same thing, this time it was the Playoff final as City lost out to Southend. However, that was to be Ricky's last as a permanent Imps player at that time, leaving for Oldham Athletic. Several months of abuse from their fans later and he was back at Sincil Bank on loan, scoring against Leyton Orient before disappearing back to Boundary Park until the end of the season.

A move to Peterborough United saw him hook up with numerous ex-Lincoln players. The same happened at Notts County and despite averaging a goal every four games at Meadow Lane, the fans hated him and he was released at the end fo the 2008/9 season, rejoining Lincoln City.

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