Tommy Lawton

Tommy Lawton

Tommy Lawton was born on October 6th, 1919

Full Name: Tommy Lawton
Nationality: English
Profession: Footballer and Coach
Notable Clubs: Everton F.C.
Playing Position: Striker
Birth Year: 1919
Death Year: 1996
Occupations: Footballer Coach

A prolific goal-scorer and manager, known for his impressive playing career with Everton and the English national team, as well as his successful managerial stints in the top flight.

Written by: Sofia Garcia Sofia Garcia

Tommy Lawton: The Prolific Goal-Scorer and English Football Legend

Tommy Lawton was a force to be reckoned with on the football pitch, known for his impressive goal-scoring abilities and remarkable career that spanned over a decade. With 260 goals in 433 league and cup competitions, Lawton's name is etched in the annals of English football history as one of the most prolific goal-scorers of his time. Born on October 6, 1919, in Farnworth, Lancashire, Lawton grew up in Bolton and developed a passion for football at a young age. He began playing amateur football at Rossendale United before turning professional at Burnley on his 17th birthday. Lawton's potential as a footballer soon caught the attention of Everton, who signed him in January 1937 for £6,500. This move marked the beginning of a successful stint with the Toffees, during which he finished as the First Division's top scorer in 1938 and 1939. The latter campaign saw Everton crowned champions of the Football League, with Lawton playing a pivotal role in their triumph. The outbreak of World War II in 1939 led to the suspension of league football for seven full seasons. During this period, Lawton guested for various clubs, including Everton, and made 23 appearances for England, scoring an impressive 24 goals. His performances on the international stage further solidified his reputation as a formidable goal-scorer. After the war, Lawton moved to Chelsea in November 1945 for £14,000 and went on to score a club-record 26 goals in 34 league games during the 1946-1947 season. He made a surprise move to Third Division South club Notts County in November 1947 for a British record transfer fee of £20,000, helping the club win promotion as champions in 1949-1950. Lawton's later career saw him play for Brentford and Arsenal, before he began his managerial career with Kettering Town, leading the team to the Southern League title in 1956-1957. Despite losing much of his prime to the war, Lawton's goal-scoring record and achievements on the pitch have left an indelible mark on English football. His remarkable career serves as a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and natural talent.
  • Scored 260 goals in 433 league and cup competitions
  • Finished as the First Division's top scorer in 1938 and 1939
  • Helped Everton win the Football League championship in 1939
  • Scored 24 goals in 23 appearances for England during World War II
  • Held the record for most goals scored in a season for Chelsea (26 goals in 1946-1947)
  • Led Kettering Town to the Southern League title in 1956-1957
Lawton's later years were marred by financial struggles and legal problems, which were widely reported in the media. Despite these challenges, his legacy as a football legend remains untarnished, inspiring generations of footballers and fans alike.
Timeline
1919
Born in Farnworth
Tommy Lawton was born on October 6, 1919, in Farnworth, England. He would go on to become an English footballer and coach.
1930
Started playing for Bolton Wanderers
Lawton started playing for Bolton Wanderers, where he scored over 100 goals.
1947
Transferred to Notts County
Lawton transferred to Notts County, where he played until his retirement in 1952.
1952
Started coaching
Lawton started coaching, working with several clubs in England and abroad.
1996
Died in Nottingham
Tommy Lawton died on November 6, 1996, in Nottingham, England, at the age of 77.
Tommy Lawton

Tommy Lawton Quiz

Tommy Lawton is best known for his playing career with which English football club?

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FAQ
What was Tommy Lawtons career in football?
Tommy Lawton was a prolific English footballer who played as a striker for clubs like Everton, Chelsea, and Notts County, earning 23 caps for the English national team.
What were Tommy Lawtons most notable achievements in football?
Tommy Lawton achieved several notable milestones, including scoring 187 goals in 242 league appearances and winning the First Division Golden Boot in 1937-1938.
What was Tommy Lawtons coaching career like?
Tommy Lawton went on to become a coach, managing several clubs, including Kettering Town and Notts County, and working as a scout for the Football Association.
What awards did Tommy Lawton receive for his contributions?
Tommy Lawton received several awards for his contributions to football, including an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 1974.
What was Tommy Lawtons legacy in English football?
Tommy Lawtons legacy in English football is one of goalscoring prowess, dedication, and passion, earning him a place as one of the greatest strikers of his generation.

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