Jack Leslie (footballer)

Jack Leslie (footballer)

John Francis Leslie (17 August 1901 – 1988) was an English footballer who played as an Inside left.

Born to a Jamaican father in Canning Town, Leslie was the only professional black player in England during his time with Plymouth Argyle. He was 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 "a man of colour". As a consequence, it wasn't until 1978 that Viv Anderson became the first black player to appear in an England shirt. Leslie enjoyed a 13 year spell with Plymouth Argyle, having joined the club from Barking Town in 1921. A creator and scorer of goals, his partnership with outside left Sammy Black has gone down in history as one of their very best. The duo scored 320 goals between them in all competitions, with Leslie contributing 136 of them. The Herald described him as "known throughout England for his skill and complexion".