Born in Bilston, he joined Walsall and played for them before the war, signing for Wolves in 1945.
He played in two wartime internationals and in two Victory internationals but won his first full cap for England against France in May, 1949 soon after helping Wolves win the FA Cup. His display in England’s 2–0 defeat of Italy at Tottenham in 1949 saw Italian journalists christen him “Il Gattone” – The Cat – a nickname that remained throughout a career that saw him rated among the world’s best goalkeepers. Another outstanding display was against Scotland at Hampden when a 1–0 win clinched England’s place in the 1950 World Cup finals. He helped Wolves become champions of England in 1954 and when a veteran was recalled to the England side to take his caps total to 24. He played in the famous floodlit friendly victories over Honved, Spartak and Dynamo. Was awarded the MBE in 2010 for services to football and charity.
Place of birth: Bradley, Bilston.
Date of birth: January 31, 1920.
Years with Club: 1945 to 1957.
Club signed from: Walsall.
Appearances: 420.
International caps: 24.
