James Tildesley

James Tildesley

Born in Halesowen in 1881, Jim was picked up by Newcastle where he was regarded as understudy to the two international full-backs on the books of United at the time.

He did not let the side down when picked and was said to be ‘broad shouldered, who tackled with astounding power’.

Moving to Middlesbrough in 1906 for more game time he initially was a regular in the side but fell out of favour leading to him joining the Town in the summer of 1908.

Regarded as first reserve for Bill McCurdy, he only made one appearance, in a 2-2 draw at Reading, and swiftly moved on to Leeds City where he played a handful of games.

In later life, Jim became a noted scout for Newcastle and passed away in that city in 1963.