SYNOPSIS

West Bromwich Albion FC was initially formed as West Bromwich Strollers in 1878 and since then more than 1,000 players have served the club at various levels. This book recalls the contribution of 100 of these splendid footballers, whose careers helped establish the excellent reputation that the club now enjoys.

Players featured include those who helped Albion win two early FA Cup Finals, among them Billy Bassett, who late became chairman of the club. Also included is Jesse Pennington, one of the greatest full-backs of his time, who captained Albion to the League title in 1920.

Those who helped Albion achieve the unique double in 1930/31 (FA Cup and promotion) are also featured, among them Tommy Glidden and striker 'W.G.' Richardson. From the 1949 promotion team come Jim Sanders, Ray Barlow, Joe Kennedy, Len Millard and Reg Ryan, who with Ronnie Allen, Johnny Nichols and others won the FA Cup in 1954.

Internationals Don Howe, Derek Kevan, Bobby Robson, Tony Brown, Graham Williams, Bobby Hope and 1968 Cup hero Jeff Astle are all included; so too are 1970s stars Johnny Giles, Laurie Cunningham, Willie Johnston, Cyrille Regis, Ally Robertson, Bryan Robson, Derek Statham and John Wile. Recent years have seen players such as Andy Hunt, Lee Hughes and Bob Taylor give excellent service and they too earn their place.

Each of these players, and many others, are given a detailed biography together with a statistical account of their service to the club. Illustrated with over 100 photographs, many of which have never been published before, this book by club historian Tony Matthews will prove a valuable reference work for supporters of all ages.