Dick Walker

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Richard Walker (born 22 July 1913 in Hackney, London, died February 1988) was an English footballer who played for West Ham United.

Dick Walker's three decade association with West Ham began during the 1932-33 season. Playing for Becontree Athletic on Sunday mornings, Walker was spotted by a club scout and given a trial. He played for the club in the London Midweek League, but moved to West London club Park Royal for the following season.

After a home clash against Park Royal, West Ham resigned the player and he made his first-team debut as right-half against Burnley on 27 August 1934. After featuring in a number of defensive positions, he finally settled into centre-half as replacement for Jim G. Barrett in 1936.

During World War II, Walker served with the Paras but took leave to play occasional games for the East London club. Upon his return from action, he took the captaincy and played league football with the club until his final game on 18 February 1953, against Plymouth Argyle at Upton Park. He totalled 292 league appearances for the club, scoring two goals.

The following four years would see Walker play more than 200 further reserve and A team games until the end of the 1956-57 season. He received a testimonial in October 1957.

Walker went on to become coach to Dagenham and later joined Spurs as a scout.

[edit] References

Hogg, Tony (2005). Who's Who of West Ham United. Profile Sports Media, 208. ISBN 1 903135 50 8.
Richard Walker, westhamstats.info, last accessed 20 January 2007