James Squair

James Squair (28 September 1884 – 1910) was a Scottish Association footballer. He played as forward.

Early years Squair was born and lived his earliest years in Edinburgh. His mother died when he was around 3 years old. When aged around 8, he moved briefly to London where his father re-married. He then moved to Newcastle on Tyne where he schooled. He then started a career as a shipbroker's clerk there. He played for a minor cricket club. That is disputed though with at least one online article claiming it is incorrect that they played for Newcastle United (since they were never on the club's books and their names do not appear in any contemporary British football records). In his first season at Juventus, they won the Prima Categoria, a predecessor tournament of the 1929 formed Serie A. This was also prior to the Scudetto being awarded to the Italian league champions from 1924. 1905 is though recognised as the first national league title won by Juve. Juve came close to retaining the title in 1906. However, after a play-off versus Milan was drawn, Juve refused to replay, protesting that the replay was arranged in their opponents' city. Milan were thus awarded the title.

Squair then relocated to Naples, appointed local manager for Peirce Brothers, an off-shoot of Becker's shipping agency. His football career ended at this point.

Personal life and death Squair was followed to Naples by Mabel Stroud, the daughter of an English lace manufacturer who was based in Turin. Squair married Mabel at the British Consulate in March 1909. In November they had a daughter named Emily. Five days after Emily's birth though, he died on St Andrews Day, 30 November 1909. His death certificate does not state the cause. He was 25.

Diment married and fathered a daughter named Ruby with Mabel's sister, Olga. Diment and Olga later divorced.

Honours

Juventus

Prima Categoria: 1905