Albert Blan

Who is Albert Blan?

Albert Blan is an English professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s, '50s and '60s playing at representative level for England, and at club level for Wigan 'A', and Swinton. Blan was the Lions' astute captain during much of his service with the club leading them to their two successive First Division Championships of 1962-63 and 1963-64. Blan was also a skilled place kicker whether a penalty or a conversion. Until the late 1950s he usually played in the Centre, i.e. number 3 or 4, but as he lost pace he successfully moved to Loose forward, i.e. number 13, where his leadership and notable quick thinking football brain sparked off many a try scoring movement. Many Swinton fans often referred to him as "Brainy Blan", and with very good reason.