Smith Jock Image 2 Ayr United 1925

Description

Dalbeattie, Dumfrieshire born left back (who also spent long periods on the other side) John “Jock” Smith began his football career with junior clubs Beith in 1913 and Neilston Victoria in 1914, but after the First World War he joined Scottish League club Ayr United in 1919. He remained with The Honest Men for several seasons, and was honoured when selected for Scotland, playing in a 1-1 draw against England at Wembley in April 1924. A further honour followed when he was selected to represent The Scottish League, playing in a 2-0 defeat to The Football League at Celtic Park in March 1926.

In the 1926 close season he joined Second Division club Middlesbrough, making his Football League debut at South Shields that September, helping ‘Boro to win the Second Division Championship in 1926-27. He missed only one match in the First Division in 1927-28, and despite their relegation he again helped ‘Boro to win the Second Division Championship in 1928-29. However he lost his place back in the top flight and played only 9 further matches before joining Second Division club Cardiff City in the 1930 close season after 123 appearances for Middlesbrough. Although Cardiff were relegated in his first season at Ninian Park, he stayed a further season with The Bluebirds, making 65 appearances, before joining Irish League club Distillery in 1932, his final club before his retirement.