Billy Meredith (1874-1958) was born in Chirk, Wales and worked at a local colliery while playing for Chirk and Northwich Victoria.
Billy Meredith (1874-1958) was born in Chirk, Wales and worked at a local colliery while playing for Chirk and Northwich Victoria. He joined Manchester City in October 1894 and made his debut against Newcastle in the same month. An old-style winger who generally patrolled his touchline throughout the game, his bursts of speed and mazy runs coupled with his deadly crosses earned him the title the 'Welsh Wizard'. What’s more, his ability to cut inside and shoot with great power saw him score many more goals than the average wingman. In total, Billy appeared 390 times for Manchester City and scored 150 goals, including the one that secured the FA Cup for City – their first ever trophy.
In May 1906, he moved to Manchester United, made his debut on January 1, 1907 in a 1-0 win against Aston Villa, and quickly became a firm favourite amongst the fans. Billy would play some 335 games for United, scoring 36 goals, and helping the Old Trafford club to their first trophies: two Football League Championships, one FA Cup and two Charity Shields. In 1921, he returned to City where he continued to play with his customary toothpick in his mouth until the age of 47. In 1924 he appeared in the FA Cup, his last match being against Newcastle in the semi final at the age of 49 years and 245 days, making him the oldest player ever to play in the FA Cup. He won 48 caps for Wales, the last coming at the age of 43. The founder member of the PFA.
