Date of birth 24 June 1917 1952-1953 Halifax Town 1936-1952 Sheffield United Died April 2003 | Years Team Role Footballer Date of death April 2003 Name Albert Cox | |
Place of birth Treeton, Rotherham, England | ||
Albert Edward Harrison Cox (24 June 1917 in Treeton, Rotherham – April 2003) was a footballer who played as a left-back for Sheffield United and Halifax Town.
Career
Cox joined Sheffield United from amateur side Woodhouse Mills United F.C., and quickly settled into the first team at Bramall Lane. He made his league debut against Blackpool at Bramall Lane on 20 February 1936, in a 1–0 win. In 1936, Sheffield United reached the FA Cup semi-finals, where they met fellow Second Division side Fulham. Normal left-back, Charlie Wilkinson was injured and unavailable to play in the semi-final, so the inexperiennced Cox took his place. Cox remained "cool in defence" as Fulham were defeated 2–1. Wilkinson recovered from his injury in time for the final and manager, Teddy Davison, "opted for (Wilkinson's) age and experience" over Cox.
Cox was often described as a 'bungle of energy' on the field of play. His partner at full-back in the late 1930s was Harry Hooper.
Although World War II interrupted his career, Cox played on for several seasons after hostilities had ended, and became one of the most consistent left-backs in the Football League. In total he made 267 league appearances for the Blades with 5 goals.
He was transferred to Halifax Town during the 1952 close season.