Johnny Ballantyne

Who is Johnny Ballantyne?

Johnny Ballantyne was an early twentieth century Scottish football inside forward who played professionally in Scotland, England and the United States.

Ballantyne began his career with Partick Thistle in 1921. In 1924, after signing a one season contract with Thistle including a signing bonus, he moved to the United States where he signed with the Boston Soccer Club of the American Soccer League. This nearly led to the suspension of the United States Football Association, an action prevented by stronger agreements between FIFA member associations on player transfer rules. Ballantyne spent four seasons with Boston before returning to Thistle in 1929. Ballantyne played for Thisle until 1935 when he was briefly with Falkirk F.C. before moving to Queens Park Rangers. He finished his career with them in 1936.