Philip Smith (1885 – 29 September 1918) was an English footballer who played at centre-forward for Burslem Port Vale, Crewe Alexandra, Chelsea, Burnley, and Stalybridge Celtic. He was killed in action during World War I.[2]

Career

Smith played for Knutton, before joining Burslem Port Vale in August 1905.[3] After making his debut in a 3–1 defeat to Lincoln City at Sincil Bank on 2 September, he became a regular in the first team.[3] He got his first League goal seven days later, in a 4–3 win over Chesterfield at the Athletic Ground.[3] He claimed eight goals in 25 Second Division appearances in the 1905–06 season.[3] However, he was later released, most likely in the summer of 1906.[3] He later played for Crewe Alexandra, before joining Chelsea for a £250 fee in April 1910.[1] He played one First Division match for the club, a 1–0 defeat at Bristol City on 16 April 1910.[1] He left Chelsea in OCtober 1910 and went on to play for Burnley and Stalybridge Celtic.

Personal life

Smith was the older brother of footballer Joe Smith.[4] He served as a gunner in the Royal Field Artillery during World War I and was killed in action whilst fighting in the Western Front on 29 September 1918.[2]

Career statistics

• Sourced by Philip Smith at the English National Football Archive (subscription required)

References