Gerry Francis (footballer born 1933)
Encyclopedia
Gerry Francis is a former professional footballer who played as a right winger for Leeds United and York City
. He was the first black footballer to play for Leeds.
in October 1959 and a memorable performance in a 3–2 victory at Lincoln City
in December 1960, he struggled to make an impression and was released in October 1961 to join York City
where he scored four goals in 16 appearances in the 1961–62 season.
Gerald Francis is credited with paving the way for other black players that make up the ranks of the British premiership, especially those of South African heritage.
York City F.C.
York City Football Club is an English football club based in York, North Yorkshire. The club participates in the Conference National, the fifth tier of English football. Founded in 1922, they joined the Football League in 1929, and have spent most of their history in the lower divisions...
. He was the first black footballer to play for Leeds.
Playing career
Francis, who was a shoe-repairer from South Africa, began his footballing career in England as an amateur with Leeds United before being given a professional contract in July 1957. He made his debut in the 1959–60 season, becoming the first black footballer to play for Leeds. He joined a declining side that was relegated at the end of the 1959–60 season and despite a spectacular goal against EvertonEverton F.C.
Everton Football Club are an English professional association football club from the city of Liverpool. The club competes in the Premier League, the highest level of English football...
in October 1959 and a memorable performance in a 3–2 victory at Lincoln City
Lincoln City F.C.
Lincoln City Football Club is an English professional association football club based in Lincoln, Lincolnshire. The club are currently members of the Conference National in 2011–12 following relegation from the Football League....
in December 1960, he struggled to make an impression and was released in October 1961 to join York City
York City F.C.
York City Football Club is an English football club based in York, North Yorkshire. The club participates in the Conference National, the fifth tier of English football. Founded in 1922, they joined the Football League in 1929, and have spent most of their history in the lower divisions...
where he scored four goals in 16 appearances in the 1961–62 season.
Gerald Francis is credited with paving the way for other black players that make up the ranks of the British premiership, especially those of South African heritage.
Personal life
In 1962, Francis married a Trinidadian born Book-keeper, Anna de Barry. Together they had two children Lisa born in 1968 and Tracy born in 1973. In 1971, Gerald, Anna and Lisa migrated to Toronto, Canada. He currently resides with his with his wife of 49-years, children and 2 grandchildren.Playing statistics
| Club | League | FA Cup | League Cup | Total |
| |Apps (goals) | Apps (goals) | Apps (goals) | Apps (goals) | |
| Leeds United | 46 (9) | 1 (0) | 3 (0) | 50 (9) |
| York City | 16 (4) |