Career
An outside left, Wilson began his career with a series of local Fife clubs, including then non-league Cowdenbeath. In 1904 he signed for First Division Heart of Midlothian, at that time struggling due to financial concerns. He scored the winning goal in the final against holders Third Lanark, a tap-in in the 81st minutes after a Bobby Walker shot had been blocked.
His stay on Merseyside was brief however and, after a short spell with Irish side Distillery, he joined for £1,600 in 1907, a then record transfer fee.
Wilson was nicknamed "Smiler" during his time on Tyneside, although this was a sarcastic epithet, as he was a rather dour character, matching the Scottish stereotype. He was small in height (5"6") but a big build meant that he was not easily pushed off the ball.
Wilson was a full Scottish international, making his debut for the national team in a 1–1 draw with Wales at Dens Park in 1904. He earned six caps in total, four while with Hearts and one each during his time at Everton and Newcastle.
His final international appearance occurred in a 2–0 defeat by England in 1909.
Wilson represented the Scottish League XI once, in 1906. The First World War interrupted the latter part of Wilson"s career and from 1914 onward he played with East Fife then Raith Rovers back in his native Fife, as well as Lanarkshire side Albion Rovers. Wilson was also manager of Raith Rovers for a time, although he resigned this position and emigrated to Canada.
As a player.
