Full name Thomas William Baker Name Tom Baker Years Team | Playing position Date of death 1975 (aged 69–70) | |
Date of birth (1905-08-17)17 August 1905 Place of birth Seaham Harbour, England | ||
Thomas William Baker (17 August 1905 – 30 March 1975), sometimes known as Billy Baker, was an English professional football goalkeeper who played in the Football League for Brentford, Southport, Northampton Town and Rochdale.
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Early years
A goalkeeper, Baker began his career in his native North East with Northern League sides Usworth Colliery, Crook Town, Shotton Colliery Welfare and Chilton Colliery Recreation. He later earned a move to the Football League with Southport, making 65 appearances before departing in 1932.
Brentford
Baker signed for Division Three South side Brentford in 1932 on a free transfer. Originally signed by Harry Curtis as cover for Dave Smith, Baker quickly took over the number one jersey and held down the position until January 1934, when Jack Clough took over. He made 43 appearances during the Bees' 1932–33 Division Three South title-winning season. Baker left Brentford at the end of the 1933–34 season, having made 65 appearances in his two years at Griffin Park.
Northampton Town
Baker remained in the Division Three South to sign for Northampton Town, playing the 1934–35 season with the club.
Later career
Baker's final league club was Division Three North side Rochdale and he wound down his career with North Eastern League side Horden Colliery Welfare.
Personal life
During his amateur football career, Baker worked as a miner.
Honours
Brentford