SWIFT, Frank (1942)

Overview

One of the great English goalkeepers of all time, Frank was born in Blackpool on Boxing Day 1913. He was with Fleetwood before he caught the attention of Manchester City where he became a legend.

In the Final of the FA Cup at Wembley he was only 19 and at the close of the match which City had won against Portsmouth, he fainted with excitement. He was very popular with the fans wherever he played no matter their particular loyalties.

Not many goalkeepers have captained their country, Frank had that honour bestowed on him. In 1942 he represented the Army versus an Irish FA XI, an Army in Ulster X1 and an Irish League XI. He appeared for England against Scotland before 30,000 at Hampden Park on 20th February 1943 while he was a guest with Accies. That same year he played for Western Command against Northern Command.

During his service days he turned out for Reading, Aldershot, Charlton Athletic, Liverpool and Fulham. Outwith the war time Internationals which were classified as unofficial, he was chosen to play for his country 19 times as well as numerous appearances for the English League. A gentleman on and off the field. He could lift a ball with one hand such was the span he possessed.

He died in 1958 as a result of the Munich crash which claimed the lives of so many associated with the sport, he was a reporter at that time.

Debut on 28th November 1942 in a Southern League match away to Hibernian.

Southern League 10 Appearances

Summer League Cup 1 Appearance

Accies Career

Links and References

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