Samuel English was a Northern Irish footballer who played for several clubs during the 1930s, but is mainly remembered for his time with Rangers.
14 Facts About Sam English
1.
2.
Sam English's career was overshadowed by the death of Celtic goalkeeper John Thomson who died as a result of an accidental collision with English during an Old Firm game in 1931.
3.
Samuel English was born in the hamlet of Crevolea in Aghadowey, Ireland.
4.
Sam English scored 53 goals in all competitions that season, including a five-goal haul against Morton, four goals against Queens Park and hat-tricks against Dundee United, Leith Athletic, Falkirk, Brechin City, Ayr United and Raith Rovers.
5.
Sam English was less prolific the following season, but still scored 11 goals in 30 league and cup matches, helping Rangers to win the Scottish League Championship.
6.
Sam English's career was overshadowed by an incident on 5 September 1931 where he was involved in a collision with John Thomson, the Celtic goalkeeper.
7.
Nevertheless, Sam English was deeply traumatised by what had happened to Thomson.
8.
Sam English began the season in fine form and had scored 16 goals by the half-way stage.
9.
The move was not a success and Sam English was given a free transfer to Hartlepools United in July 1936.
10.
Sam English was to find that his reputation had preceded him, he often faced taunts regarding the death of Thomson, and he never fully recovered his playing form despite scoring 31 goals in 75 appearances for Hartlepools.
11.
Sam English won two full international caps in 1932 for Ireland.
12.
Sam English died in the Vale of Leven Hospital in Alexandria, at the age of 58 after battling motor neurone disease.
13.
In recognition of his prolific goal-scoring exploits during his two seasons at Rangers, Sam English was added to the club's Hall of Fame in 2009.
14.
The Sam English Bowl was then presented to Rangers and is awarded yearly to the club's top-scorer in a season.