George Utley

George Utley (16 May 1887 – 8 January 1966) was an English footballer who played for Barnsley, Sheffield United and England. He was a strong and powerful half back who could shoot at goal when required.

Utley was born in Reform Row, Elsecar, which lies south of Barnsley. He was the 11th and final child of James and Mary Utley. His father was an engine tender at a colliery and his brothers worked in the local coal mines and foundries.

Club career

Barnsley On leaving school he became a joiner,

He made a total of 167 league appearances for Barnsley, scoring eight goals. Following a letter of recommendation from United player Billy Gillespie, the man they targeted was George Utley. thumb The committee were not unanimous about signing Utley, who they feared would fetch a large fee. Bolton Wanderers had previously offered £1,500, which had been rejected by Barnsley. The Blades offered more and were also turned down. United offered £2,000 which was accepted, making him the joint-most expensive player in Britain at the time.

In the semi-final of the 1914–15 FA Cup, Utley's goal in the 2–1 victory over Bolton Wanderers was described as "the best of his career", as he dribbled the ball 60 yards before scoring. Sheffield United's success in the cup when compared to previous seasons was credited to Utley.

Coaching After leaving Manchester City, Utley went on to hold the position of trainer at Bristol City before moving to Sheffield Wednesday in May 1924 as coach. He then moved on to become a trainer at Fulham in July 1925, a position he remained in until 1927. This remains the only England appearance by a Barnsley player. Utley stayed at Bramall Lane for another two years.

Astute in financial matters, Utley married into a wealthy family following the death of his first wife. Having no children from either marriage he returned his second wife's money to her family upon her death claiming he had enough to keep him. Living in a large house he kept two housekeepers to whom he bequeathed a home on the estate for peppercorn rent upon his death.

Football by Prominent Players: "Captaining the Cup-Winners", The Boys' Friend Feb, 14 1920 "The Complete Half-Back", The Boys' Realm, 20 Mar 1920

Utley died in January 1966.

Career statistics Club

Honours Barnsley FA Cup: 1911–12;

Sheffield United FA Cup: 1914–15