ONE of the first ever black professional footballers in England, Walter Tull, was inducted into the National Football Museum hall of fame this week.
Tull played 10 times for Tottenham between 1909 and 1911 before serving in the First World War and tragically being killed aged 29.
He also went on to play for Northampton Town from 1911 to 1914 before becoming the first British-born black combat officer in the British Army.
Tull signed to play for Rangers in 1917 and would’ve joined up with the Scottish side after the war but for his tragic early death.
On Wednesday his career was recognised at a ceremony at the National Football Museum in Manchester.
His grandnephew Edward Finlayson collected a special framed shirt with Spurs legend Ledley King also present.
King said: “It was an honour to attend today’s ceremony and celebrate Walter being inducted into the National Football Museum Hall of Fame.
“Walter made an outstanding contribution to football and the country, and everyone should know his story.
“As one of the first black professional footballers, he paved the way for so many to follow his path in future generations, including myself.”
Rangers managing director Stewart Robertson also said: “This is a fantastic accolade for a truly remarkable man.
“It remains tragic that Walter was unable to feature for Rangers, but we remain immensely humbled that he was our first black player in a time where it was unfortunately extremely uncommon across British football to boast players from non-white ethnic backgrounds.
“He led the way for today’s Rangers squad and indeed staff, which is comprised of so many different backgrounds, and that today, is something we are all incredibly proud of and remain committed through our Everyone Anyone campaign to continue to enrich and enhance.
“His military service too is something every staff member at Ibrox and the Rangers Training Centre are in awe of, and on behalf of Rangers Football Club, I would like to send my sincere congratulations to Walter’s family.”
National Football Museum CEO Tim Desmond said: “We’re delighted to present this award to Edward on behalf of Walter.
“The National Football Museum Hall of Fame aims to recognise a wide diversity of individuals who’ve made an outstanding contribution to the game. Walter’s story is one that everyone should know.
“He truly was football’s hidden pioneer, and we hope this helps to recognise his impact on both the game and society itself.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
