11 Facts About Willie Gildea

William Franklyn Gildea was a Scottish footballer who played as a centre half.

Willie Gildea played for Falkirk in the Scottish League, for Bradford City and Birmingham in the English Football League, and for Belfast Celtic in the Irish League.

Willie Gildea was born in October 1884 in Broxburn, in what was then Linlithgowshire.

Willie Gildea had two brothers, Peter and Harry, who became professional footballers.

Willie Gildea was transfer-listed at the end of the season, and in August 1910, he followed team-mate Archie Devine to English First Division club Bradford City.

City opened the scoring in the first half, and despite an injury to Willie Gildea that forced him to play on the wing for half the match, they retained their lead.

Willie Gildea played a further five First Division matches before the Cup Final, against Newcastle United at Crystal Palace.

Birmingham's FA Cup first-round tie against Barnsley ended without a goal; in the replay, Willie Gildea damaged a shoulder early on, winger Jimmy Conlin injured his arm so badly he had to leave the field, and Birmingham were overrun.

Willie Gildea never returned to the first team; he finished the season with the reserves, and returned to Scotland.

Willie Gildea signed for Irish Football League club Belfast Celtic in October 1912 as cover for the ageing Ireland international centre half Jimmy Connor while he was indisposed.

Willie Gildea played until the end of the year, after which he lost his place.