Billy McCullough
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William James "Billy" McCullough (born July 27, 1935) is a Northern Ireland former footballer.
Born in Carrickfergus, McCullough first played for Portadown, before being signed in 1958 by London club Arsenal. A left back, he soon made his debut for the club, against Luton Town on Boxing Day 1958. He only played ten matches that season, but after Len Wills was moved to right back at the start of 1959-60, McCullough became the Gunners' regular left back.
McCullough became known for his consistency and fitness – he wore the No. 3 shirt for Arsenal for the next six seasons, missing only a handful of matches. Although Arsenal had reached third place in his first season at the club, for the rest of his career in the side the club dwelled in mid-table and never challenged for honours. He won his first cap for Northern Ireland, against Italy on April 25, 1961, and went on to appear ten times for his country.
By 1965-66, McCullough had competition for his place, in the shape of the young Peter Storey. When Bertie Mee took over at Arsenal at the end of that season, looking to build a young side, he transfer listed the 31-year-old McCullough. He had played 268 matches in total for the Gunners, scoring 4 goals.
He was sold to Millwall in August 1966, and later had spells at Bedford Town, Cork Celtic and Derry City.