Laurence Abrams

Early career

Born in Banks, Lancashire, Abrams attended Churchtown School, helping the school football team win the Unwin Challenge Shield, a schools tournament in Southport. He began his professional career with Southport Central as an outside forward. Breaking into the first team at the age of sixteen during the 1905–06 season, he made his senior debut on 11 November 1905 in a 7–0 defeat to Manchester United Reserves. He scored his first senior goal in his second appearance, during a 3–0 victory over Oldham Athletic. Soon after, Oldham approached Southport over signing Abrams but were rebuffed as Southport claimed they had not been informed within the required time. In order to ward off interest, Southport offered Abrams a professional contract, making him the youngest ever professional player in the history of the club. Southport also attempted to claim £18 compensation from Oldham over the approach. Although the club's claim was unsuccessful, Oldham were later fined £5 by the Lancashire Combination. In his first season, he made 23 appearances in all competitions, scoring six times. He left the club in May 1906 to sign for rival Lancashire Combination side Colne Town. In April 1907, Abrams joined Football League Second Division side Stockport County, making his debut in a 1–1 draw with Gainsborough on 7 September 1907. He remained with the club for three years, making over 70 appearances.

Hearts

On 30 December 1910, Abrams joined Scottish side Hearts for…

Although never capped at international level, Abrams did represent England in a Military International match held during the First World War, scoring one of his side's goals during a 4–3 victory over Scotland on 13 May 1916.

Following his retirement from playing, he worked as a painter and decorator in Southport. Abrams and his wife were married in 1919 and had four children together before separating. She later sued him for desertion after he left when he discovered she had an affair.

Hearts

East of Scotland Shield winner: 1911 Dunedin Cup winner: 1911 Chelsea

FA Cup Runner-up: 1915