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Jack Leslie - Plymouth Argyle
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Jack Leslie - Plymouth Argyle
Football - 1927 / 1928 season - Plymouth Argyle team group
John Jack Francis Leslie.
He made 384 league appearances for Plymouth between 1921 and 1934, scoring 132 goals.
Born to a Jamaican father in Canning Town, Leslie was the only professional black player in England during his time at Plymouth Argyle. He was reportedly set to become the first non-white player to represent England at international level before he was denied the opportunity when selectors were made aware that he was, as was then euphemistically called, " a man of colour". As a consequence it wasn t until 1978 that Viv Anderson became the first black player to represent England in a full international
Colorsport Images are an ever-expanding library providing extensive coverage of all aspects of sport including Olympics since 1972 and football since 1881
Media ID 8500139
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the iconic Jack Leslie, a legendary figure in Plymouth Argyle's history during the 1927/1928 football season. John Jack Francis Leslie, born to a Jamaican father in Canning Town, was not only an exceptional player but also a trailblazer for racial equality in English football. Leslie's remarkable career spanned from 1921 to 1934, encompassing an impressive total of 384 league appearances and an astonishing tally of 132 goals for Plymouth Argyle. However, his true significance lies beyond his on-field achievements. During his time at the club, he stood as England's sole professional black player amidst prevailing racial prejudices. Regrettably, despite being poised to become the first non-white player to represent England internationally, this historic opportunity was unjustly snatched away from him due to discriminatory attitudes prevalent at that time. When selectors discovered Leslie's ethnicity - euphemistically referred to as "a man of colour" - they denied him the chance he rightfully deserved. It wasn't until nearly half a century later in 1978 that Viv Anderson broke down barriers by becoming England's first black player in a full international match. This poignant image serves as a powerful reminder of both Leslie's immense talent and the injustices he faced throughout his career. Displayed proudly by Colorsport Images with their signature attention to detail and historical significance, this print immortalizes Jack Leslie as an enduring symbol of resilience and progress within English football history.
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