Career
Born in Ilkeston, Derbyshire, Baker was originally a miner and played for various clubs in Derbyshire as an amateur, including Eastwood Rangers. During World War I he guested for Chesterfield, Crystal Palace and Huddersfield Town, although these appearances are not considered official In 1919 he turned professional and signed foreign
According to club legend, manager Leslie Knighton signed Baker after meeting him at the pit where he worked, thus beating rivals for the player"s signature who were waiting at his home.
He made his debut for against Newcastle United on 13 August 1919 (which was "s first-ever top flight game at Highbury). A utility player, "Doughy" (as he was nicknamed) played in every position for, including as an emergency goalkeeper on several occasions, though usually played as right half.
He was made club captain in 1924. However, when new manager Herbert Chapman arrived at the end of that season, he made Charlie Buchan captain instead of Baker.
Baker continued to play for for another five years, though.
The following season, he was finally capped for England, appearing against Wales on 28 November 1927. England lost 2-1. lieutenant was his only international appearance. He played only one more game for the club (also against Huddersfield, on 7 March 1931) before retiring from the game aged 33 in the summer of 1931.
In all, he played 351 matches for, scoring 26 goals.
Baker later worked for as a scout. He died in 1955, at the age of 56.
As a player.