Vince Hilaire

Vincent Mark Hilaire (born 10 October 1959) is an English retired professional footballer who played in the Football League for Crystal Palace, Luton Town, Portsmouth, Leeds United, Stoke City and Exeter City. He was one of the first established black players in English football.

Career Hilaire began his career with Crystal Palace as a 17-year-old in a 3–2 defeat at Lincoln City in March 1977 He also played one summer season in the NASL with the San Jose Earthquakes in 1982.

He joined Luton Town in July 1984 but made only six appearances before being transferred to Portsmouth a few months later in November 1984, where he made 146 appearances, scoring 25 goals.

Personal life Hilaire was name checked in the 1989 single by electronic band The Beloved in their Top 20 single "Hello".

His autobiography, Vince, was released in early 2018, co-written with Tom Masalona.

Career statistics Source:

A. The "Other" column constitutes appearances and goals in the Full Members Cup, Football League Trophy.