Glyn James


Edward Glyn James is a Welsh former professional footballer. He played as a defender. He spent his entire professional career with Blackpool.
James also represented Wales on nine occasions.

Early life

James became a Welshman in unusual circumstances: his parents were both English and lived a few miles from the Welsh border but James was delivered in the nearest nursing home across the border in Llangollen. He was brought up in Weston Rhyn near Oswestry in Shropshire.
He was educated at Oswestry Boys High School, where one of his contemporaries was Alan Ball, Jr who later played alongside James when Ball played for Blackpool during 1961 to 1966. He played for the school team as well as turning out for Gobowen Juniors and the Druids club at Ruabon.

Club career

He was recommended to Blackpool by the former Wales international Billy Matthews, who was a Blackpool scout. He joined the Seasiders as a trainee in December 1957 and signed as a professional in May 1959.
Blackpool manager Ron Suart gave James his Blackpool debut on 28 September 1960, in a goalless draw at Leeds United in the League Cup. He made four more appearances in 1960–61 – three in the League and one in the League Cup.

Later career

Following his retirement from football, James set up a laundry and dry cleaning business and included his former club amongst his clientele.

Blackpool F.C. Hall of Fame

James was inducted into the Hall of Fame at Bloomfield Road, when it was officially opened by former Blackpool player Jimmy Armfield in April 2006. Organised by the Blackpool Supporters Association, Blackpool fans around the world voted on their all-time heroes. Five players from each decade are inducted; James is in the 1960s.

International career

James won nine caps for Wales between 1965 and 1971.

Career statistics

Club statistics

International statistics