David James
Great Britain- Early Career and Watford
- Liverpool and Legacy of Errors
- Aston Villa and West Ham
- Manchester City and Separation
- Portsmouth and Cup Glory
- Bristol City and Bournemouth
- Overseas Venture at Vestmannaeyjar
- Kerala Blasters and Manager-Player Role
- International Career and World Cup
- Coaching Career
- Accolades
Early Career and Watford
David James began his football journey in the youth ranks of Watford. In 1989, he played a pivotal role in Watford's triumph in the FA Youth Cup.
Liverpool and Legacy of Errors
In 1992, James joined Liverpool, assuming the role of first-choice goalkeeper after the departure of Bruce Grobbelaar. Despite being a regular under manager Roy Evans, James's time at Liverpool was marked by frequent errors that hampered the team's title aspirations.
Aston Villa and West Ham
After Gérard Houllier replaced Evans as manager, Liverpool parted ways with James, who joined Aston Villa. In 2001, he moved to West Ham United but faced delays in his debut due to a severe knee injury sustained while playing for England. James made 102 appearances for West Ham before departing in 2004.
Manchester City and Separation
James briefly joined Manchester City in 2004 before returning to the Premier League with West Ham. In 2006, he sought a move away from Manchester City to be closer to his children in London.
Portsmouth and Cup Glory
In 2006, James joined Portsmouth, where he became the third player (after Gary Speed and Ryan Giggs) to reach 500 career appearances in the Premier League. He lifted the FA Cup in 2008, his second major trophy after the League Cup with Liverpool.
Bristol City and Bournemouth
James joined Bristol City in 2011 and played his last game for the club in 2012. He then had a brief spell with Bournemouth, making 19 appearances before his contract was terminated by mutual consent in 2013.
Overseas Venture at Vestmannaeyjar
James ventured outside England for the first time in his career when he joined Icelandic club Vestmannaeyjar in 2013, combining his responsibilities as goalkeeper with those of an assistant manager.
Kerala Blasters and Manager-Player Role
In 2014, James joined Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters as a player-manager. He made his debut in a defeat against North-East United. Kerala Blasters finished as runners-up in the inaugural ISL tournament.
International Career and World Cup
James made his international debut for England in 1997 and is the oldest player to participate in the World Cup. He broke the record for the oldest debutant at the World Cup in 2010 when he played against Algeria at the age of 40.
Coaching Career
James holds a UEFA Coaching Licence and has served as a playing coach for Luton Town and Kerala Blasters.
Accolades
In 2012, James was awarded an MBE for his services to football and charity.
