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Tommy LawtonFootball player, coach and sports manager
Date of Birth: 06.10.1919
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Tom Lawton: A Football Legend
- Breakthrough at Everton
- Wartime Service
- Post-War Success and Departure from Chelsea
- Later Career and Management
- Personal Life and Legacy
Tom Lawton: A Football Legend
Early Life and CareerThomas Lawton was born into an English family in October 1919. His early years were spent in Bolton, where he attended a school that encouraged football. Lawton excelled as a youth player, demonstrating exceptional athleticism and goal-scoring prowess. Despite family doubts about his professional prospects, he eventually joined Burnley FC as a teenager, becoming the youngest center-forward in the English Football League.
Breakthrough at Everton
In 1936, Lawton turned professional with Everton FC. His debut was marked by an impressive goal within 30 seconds of entering the field. He quickly established himself as a prolific scorer, earning the title of top goalscorer in the first division in the 1938-1939 season. Lawton became a key player for Everton, impressing critics with his skillful play and unique style.
Wartime Service
The outbreak of World War II disrupted Lawton's career. He was not assigned to combat duty but continued to play for Everton and the England national team. He also made appearances for various clubs as a guest player during the wartime period.
Post-War Success and Departure from Chelsea
After the war, Lawton joined Chelsea FC in 1945. He resumed his scoring form, setting a club record of 26 goals in 34 games. However, a falling out with management led to his departure for Notts County FC. Lawton hoped to elevate the club to the top flight and secure a coaching position after retirement, but injuries and managerial duties hindered his success.
Later Career and Management
Lawton's playing career continued through the 1950s, but he struggled to recapture his earlier form. He unsuccessfully attempted to combine playing and coaching roles. After retiring as a player, he made several attempts at non-football ventures, including pub management and insurance sales, but without much success. He briefly returned to football as a scout and assistant coach, but his career had effectively ended by the mid-1980s.
Personal Life and Legacy
Tom Lawton had two significant relationships. His first marriage to Rosaline May Kavanagh ended in divorce due to infidelity and lack of shared interests. In 1952, he married Gladys Rose, who gave him a stepson and a son. Lawton's later years were marked by declining health and financial struggles. He passed away in 1996 and was posthumously inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2003. Lawton's legacy as a legendary center-forward and respected coach is cemented by his achievements and the contributions he made to the sport. In 2022, he was portrayed in the film "Eleven Silent Men" by Russian actor Gleb Gerassiev.
