Martin Frail

Martin Frail

Born in Burslem in 1869, Joe was a Romany gypsy who lived in a caravan during his playing days and wore a knotted handkerchief around his neck while turning out as a capable goalkeeper.

As befitting his lifestyle he did not stay at any club too long, although a series of misdemeanours off the field hastened his exit in some cases!

Starting at Port Vale, Joe had spells at Glossop, Derby and Middlesbrough before arriving at Luton in May 1902 where, despite letting in three goals on his debut, missed only one game in 1902-03 before departing for Brentford.

After three more clubs, Joe hung up his gloves at Glossop in 1907 before passing away in Hanley in 1939.