John Oliver

Who is John Oliver?

John Oliver was an English professional footballer who played as a full back, centre or wing half.

John, commonly known in sports circles as "Jack", played semi-professional for Walker Celtic in the North Eastern League whilst qualifying as draftsman.

Oliver played cricket for North Durham in the Tyneside Senior League and on one occasion was presented with a certificate by his fellow players for an outstanding batting display of 77 not out against County Club on 19 August 1933.

Oliver joined Stoke City after qualifying as a draftsman in 1933 and was a team colleague of Sir Stanley Matthews, Frank Soo and Freddie Steele. He transferred to Burnley, playing alongside Jack Marshal, Tommy Lawton and Harold Readett. Primarily a defender, he was able to play at either full back positions, wing half or centre half.

Oliver suffered a bad ankle injury whilst at Burnley and retired from League Football. He was offered a position at Calais Football Club; however he joined Burnley Police where he captained the football and cricket teams. He later transferred to Middlesbrough Police as Detective just prior to the outbreak of WWII and during war service qualified as a pilot but was never called up for active flying duties.