MARTIN, George (1920)

Overview

A young centre forward who was enlisted from the local junior side, Cadzow St Anne’s at the commencement of the 1920-21 season as a twenty one year old having been born on 14th July 1899 in Bothwell Parish. His best match was on 19th September 1920 when he scored all Accies goals in a 3-0 win over St Mirren at Douglas Park. Unlucky with injury, he was unable to command a regular place in the side.

He signed for Bo’ness on loan and in season 1921-22 he was their joint top scorer. Another loan move involved him joining forces with Bathgate as well. He moved south to Hull City in October 1922 and spent five seasons with them during which time he turned out in a variety of positions, appeared 204 times for them and scored 56 goals in the process.

In March 1928 he signed for Everton and helped them to win the Second Division Championship in 1930-31. There he played alongside the legendary Dixie Deans. Then he had a spell with Middlesbrough whom he joined in May 1932.

A move to Luton Town came about the following August. He retired in 1937 to be appointed as coach then manager from August 1939 until May 1947 a period in which he discovered several fine youngsters for the Hatters as they sought to rebuild a team following the Second World War.

On leaving Luton he became manager of Newcastle United from May 1947 until December 1950 and he led them back to Division One in 1948 where they did well. Among the players he introduced to St James’s Park was Bobby Mitchell who went on to become one of the great heroes on Tyneside.

His next task was as manager to Aston Villa where he did not have the best of relationships with the board he was forced to resign in August 1953. He then went into business in Liverpool in 1953 but returned to assist Luton Town again in 1960 as chief scout at a time when they were in the Fourth Division. By February 1965 he had taken over the role as caretaker manager which he fulfilled until November 1966.

Always well dressed, he was also a talented sculptor and singer, indeed in the early 1940’s he made several records. A truly all round sportsman, he also excelled at bowls, tennis and golf.

He died in 1972 at Luton.

Debut on 28th August 1920 away to Motherwell in a 2-0 defeat.

Scottish League 23 Appearances 7 Goals (1 Hat trick)

Scottish Cup 3 Appearances 1 Goal

Lanarkshire Cup 1 Appearance

Accies Career

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