A skilled and prolific goal-scorer, known for his impressive strike rate and playing career with Derby County and England's national team.
Sammy Crooks, born Samuel Dickinson Crooks, was a renowned English footballer who dominated the sport as an outside forward or outside right, earning him 26 caps for England. He played for Derby County during the mid-war era, leaving an indelible mark on the sport with his exceptional skills and impressive goal-scoring record.
Crooks was born on January 16, 1908, in Bearpark, County Durham, as one of 17 siblings. After completing his education, he worked in the coalmines and played for the colliery team in his spare time. However, rheumatism forced him to abandon his career underground, and he later played for Tow Law Town and Durham City before joining Derby County in 1927.
Crooks' exceptional talent was quickly recognized, and he made his debut for The Rams in a 2-1 win over Leicester City on September 10, 1927. Between 1927 and 1946, he played an astonishing 445 games for Derby County, scoring 111 goals. During this period, the team finished as runners-up in the Football League twice, in 1930 and 1936.
Crooks made his first appearance for England in a 5-2 victory over Scotland on April 5, 1930, and went on to make 26 appearances, scoring 7 goals. One of his most notable performances was in a 7-1 defeat of Spain on December 9, 1931, where he scored two goals. His final England appearance came in a 6-2 victory over Hungary on December 2, 1936, alongside his Derby County colleagues Raich Carter and Eric Keen.
After his playing career was interrupted by World War II, Crooks made a few league appearances in the 1946-1947 season before retiring. He missed Derby's FA Cup win of 1946 due to a knee injury, having scored in all the earlier rounds. In December 1949, he moved into management, taking on a new challenge in the world of football.
Sammy Crooks' impressive career and achievements have cemented his place as one of the greatest footballers of the mid-war era. His remarkable goal-scoring record, exceptional skills, and dedication to the sport have made him a legend in the world of English football.
Born in 1922
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Born in 1925
A prolific goal-scorer and charismatic leader, known for his powerful playing style and successful managerial career, earning him legendary status in English football.
Born in 1919
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Born in 1912
Scored 178 goals in 396 appearances for Arsenal and the English national team, setting multiple records and earning legendary status in the sport.
Born in 1912
A legendary footballer and manager who scored 128 goals in 169 games for Arsenal and later led the team to two league titles and an FA Cup victory. He's a Gunners icon and a pioneer of the modern manager role.
Born in 1918
A talented footballer and manager who played for Middlesbrough and the English national team, known for his pace, skill, and goalscoring ability.
