[citation needed] Lee began his football career with Buckfastleigh Rangers and then as an apprentice with Bristol City, turning professional in July 1974, but failed to break into the first team.
He moved to Torquay United in January 1977, quickly establishing himself in Frank O'Farrell's side and attracting attention from higher-level clubs.
He stayed at Stamford Bridge for over seven years, scoring 36 goals in 185 league games, playing as a central defender towards the end of his time there.
His task was not helped by the sale of several key players, including top scorer Ade Akinbiyi, towards the end of his spell as Wolves manager.
[5] However, on 2 July, the day on which he was expected to formally sign his contract, he turned down the offer,[6] leaving Torquay managerless less than a week before the start of pre-season training.
Lee began his fourth full-time manager's job in July 2005 with Millwall, succeeding Steve Claridge who had been sacked after just 36 days at the helm by the club's new owners.
In January 2007, he returned to the coaching staff at Torquay United, taking temporary control of playing matters with the departure of Lubos Kubik in early February, he was then appointed Director of Football on 6 February on a three-year contract,[8] making his first act the appointment of former Torquay United and England player Keith Curle as the replacement for Kubik.
[9] However, Lee returned to Torquay United, this time as Chief Executive, on 25 May 2007 after Bateson's sale of the club to a local consortium headed by Cris Boyce.