As a youth, he played for Leadgate Street Ives and Leadgate United. His first professional club was Newcastle United F.C., with whom he had a brief spell with due to breaking both his legs whilst at Saint James" Park. He became player-manager of Leadgate Park at the age of 24, in 1920.
In 1922, he moved to Durham City, scoring five goals in eight matches, attracting the attention of Stockport County.
He stayed with County for four seasons, eventually changing positions from an inside forward to a half back. In September 1926, he was sold to Manchester United F.C.
Early in his career at Old Trafford, he was sent off in a reserve match, which resulted in a two-month suspension. However, he proved to be a trusty stalwart in the defence, and was noted for his enthusiasm and an immense capacity for hard work.
He was captain of the side during the 1928-1929 season.
He was at Old Trafford for six seasons, having made he made 140 appearances and scoring 3 goals, when he was sold to Bristol City F.C. in 1932. He lasted a season with the Robins, before returning to his hometown of Leadgate, unable to find another club In 1947, he was employed in the licensing trade in Tynemouth.