Johnny Dixon

Who was Johnny Dixon?

Johnny Dixon was an English footballer.

Born in Newcastle upon Tyne, he played for Aston Villa from 1945 until his retirement in 1961, making 430 appearances and scoring 144 goals. He was Villa's last FA Cup-winning captain, in 1957.

Dixon played for Spennymoor United before he signed as a professional for Villa shortly after the Second World War, after playing a number of wartime matches for the club. He was voted supporters' 'Terrace Trophy' winner in 1959; and in 1960 helped Villa win promotion back to the top-flight. He played his last game for Villa in April 1961, scoring in a 4-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday. On retiring, Dixon remained at the club for six years coaching the youth team. One of the most popular Villa players of all time, he continued to turn out for the Villa Old Stars into his 60s.

In recent years Johnny had suffered from Alzheimer's disease and died on 20 January 2009 in Good Hope Hospital. His grandson Robert Dixon is trying to become a professional footballer. He currently plays for Four Oaks FC.