The remarkable career of the first black footballer to receive an England call-up will be honoured with a second blue plaque.
John "Jack" Leslie who played for Plymouth Argyle between 1921 and 1934, was selected for the national team in 1925. But the striker was denied an England appearance because of the colour of his skin after selectors discovered his heritage.
The London born former Argyle captain died aged 87 in 1988.
The plaque is being unveiled in his adopted home town of Plymouth after one was earlier placed in London. In a statement, Jack's grand-daughters Lesley Hiscott, Gillian Carter, Lyn Davis said, "We feel honoured as members of Jack Leslie's family that a blue plaque is being unveiled in recognition of his achievements. Our grandad made a major contribution to the history of not only football but the integration of black people into our communities.
He was a true trailblazer and we'll always be immensely proud of him."..Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England, who will lead the plaque ceremony, said, "Leslie's story is not only about football, it is a testament to his resilience in the face of racism, While he never played for his country, Leslie's story serves as an inspiration for current generations, to continue to challenge racial boundaries in sport."
The blue plaque will be unveiled in Glendower Road in Plymouth, Where Jack lived with his family. In 2020 a blue plaque was placed outside his former home in Canning Town.
Two years ago, the FA presented his relatives with a posthumous cap.....Defender Viv Anderson became the first black player to represent England in 1978.
Daily Express 16/05/2025.