Career
Early years
Born in Greenock, Scotland, Nelson moved to Northern Ireland as a child, starting his football career there with junior sides Street Paul"s and Glenarm, before turning senior with Crusaders. Cardiff City
Nelson moved to Wales in 1921 when signed by Cardiff City and stayed with the Bluebirds for nine seasons. Amongst his team-mates were fellow Scottish international Jimmy Blair, the talented goalscoring forward Hughie Ferguson, heart and soul of the side Fred Keenor, all time Cardiff City record goal scorer Len Davies and speedy left winger George McLachlan.
Scotland
Nelson played 4 times for his country between 1925 and 1930 and was Scotland"s right-back in the Wembley Wizards game where they beat England 5-1.
Nelson had previously been selected to play for Ireland but was withdrawn from the squad when he was found to be ineligible. Newcastle United
He was signed by Newcastle United for £7,000 in July 1930.
He captained the side to victory in the 1931-1932 FA Cup. Southend United
Nelson played for Southend United in the twilight of his career.
Nelson became a publican after his playing retirement, initially in Southend then later in Penarth and Cardiff.
Cardiff City
1927
1927
FA Cup Finalist: 1
1925
1923, 1927, 1928, 1930
Newcastle United
1932.