Cumbrian goalkeeper John honored with special visit to Leeds...

John Scott, a former goalkeeper from Cumbria, was celebrated for his significant contributions to professional

football during a special visit to his old club. Born in Crosby, John began playing football in his late teens and joined

the Workington Reds in March 1948, where he had three successful seasons. From 1950 to 1954, he wore the Leeds

United jersey after being signed by manager Major Frank Buckley, making 111 appearances while playing alongside

club greats like John Charles and Jack Charl

John reminisced about his early career, where he earned a mere £12 a week and paid £1 in rent for his

accommodation in Leeds, where he shared a room with the iconic forward, John Charles. Reflecting on his

experiences at Leeds, John noted, “Naturally you feel nervous at the start, but once you cross the line and step onto

the pitch, the nerves fade away, and all you can focus on is the match.”

John reminisced happily about his early thoughts of Charlton, acknowledging that he saw him as a young boy and

never imagined his future success as a player. The 96-year-old said that there are many treasured memories from his

career, but that one of the best was meeting his late wife, Joyce: “Having never ventured outside my county because

of the war, moving to Leeds was unbelievable. Meeting all the players was remarkable; everyone was incredibly

welcoming.” Following four successful years at Leeds United, John returned to his hometown of Maryport, where he

operated a driving school and played golf as a pastime. He eventually became a county golfer and even held the

positions of captain and president of the county team.

Last week, Leeds United proudly welcomed John as a special guest at their match against Norwich City, which he

attended alongside pals, including Eli Paphitis, the well-known owner of Superfish, whom John met through their

mutual love for Leeds United.

John gave a talk and answered questions for the Over 50s supporters’ club during the visit, sharing stories from his

remarkable career. “I spent an hour answering questions… and there were 100 people who turned up just to listen,”

John shrieked. “I am more famous now than I was when I was playing!”

John met current Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier in a touching encounter, and Meslier called John a “true

inspiration.” The two even played hand size comparisons, and Meslier later gave John a signed shirt and goalkeeper’s

gloves, further highlighting the unique connection between Elland Road’s past and present.

Cumbrian goalkeeper John honored with special visit to Leeds United