Overview
John was a member of the talented Hibs side of the 70's. Although he played in the sweeper role, he was not averse to going forward where he could demonstrate his considerable skills.
Born at West Quarter, near Falkirk, on May 12th, 1948, he commenced his career with Gairdoch United. At the age of seventeen, he turned senior with Hibs and went on to gain seven full caps for Scotland as well as four Under 23 caps and one for the Scottish League. He won a League Cup winners medal in 1973, as well as appearing in the Scottish Cup Final in 1972.
Newcastle United had shown an interest in him and in October 1977, they parted with £100,000 to take him to St James' Park. He was Player of the Year in his last season at Newcastle. He moved on to Preston North End in 1979, and from there he moved again, this time signing for Accies as Player/Coach. He then became Manager before returning to Hibs, where he again played in the first team. He was appointed Manager at Easter Road in October 1984. He later resigned in November 1986.
He was then involved with various clubs. In 1997, assisting Paul Sturrock at St Johnstone. Five years later he and Paul were again together, this time with Dundee United. He was also with Paul at Southampton, Plymouth Argyle, Sheffield Wednesday and in 2007 with Swindon Town and then once again with Plymouth.
While with Hamilton, his style and experience were important at a time when there were a number of youngsters at the club. Knowing that his contract was not being renewed when Paul Sturrock gave up the Manager’s post at Plymouth, John left the club in October 2009. A year later he was acting as an observer for the SPL.
Debut on 24th October 1981 in a Scottish League match away to St Johnstone which finished 1-1.
Scottish League 38 Appearances
Scottish Cup 3 Appearances
League Cup 6 Appearances
Accies Career
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Full Name
John Henderson Blackley
1981-83
Nickname
Sloop
Position
Defence
Born
12 May 1948
Died
Signed by
Davie McParland
Debut
24 October 1981
Last Game
Honours
Scotland international
Scottish League Cup winner
Clubs Played For
Gairdoch United
Hibernian
Newcastle United
Preston North End
Hamilton Academical
Hibernian