Overview
Born on 3rd September 1921, in Prestwich, Manchester he was signed as an amateur from Mujacs FC by Manchester United, turning professional in December 1939. He was a Royal Marine Commando and it was during World War Two that he appeared for Accies as a centre forward.
Others clubs he turned out for at that time included, Hyde United, Plymouth Argyle and Portsmouth. He made his debut for Manchester United on 18th September 1946 at home to Chelsea. He played originally as an inside forward, he was soon converted to a half back and finally he stepped back to left back and there he displayed his best form resulting in him being capped on 17 occasions by England.
He moved to the forward line when required by his club. In season 1950-51 he scored 15 times from 22 matches at centre forward. He won an English Cup medal in 1948 and was a member of the side which won the League Championship in 1952.
He retired as player in the 1954 close season and was appointed junior coach, having appeared in almost 300 first team matches for the club. A testimonial match was played for him at Old Trafford on 25th April 1956. He was United’s chief scout from August 1970 until December 1972. A real gentleman. His son, John junior, also played for United and emulated his father when he won a Championship medal in 1967.
Debut on 12th February 1944 in a Southern League match at home to Rangers.
Southern League 1 Appearance
- Read the fans' memories, or add your own, via this link.
- Please contact us if you have any information that will improve this page or if you spot any mistakes.
Accies Career
Links and References
Full Name
John aston
1944
Position
Left back
Born
3 September 1921
Died
Signed by
Willie McAndrew
Debut
12 February 1944
Last Game
Honours
English FA Cup
English League Championship
English International
Clubs Played For
Mujacs
Manchester United
Hamilton academical
Hyde United
Plymouth Argyle
Portsmouth