Wilf Copping

Leeds United

Copping was born in Middlecliffe, Barnsley, Yorkshire, but was rejected by his local team Barnsley, and worked for a time in the pits while playing for Middlecliffe Rovers. He eventually joined Leeds United in 1929, and made his debut at the start of the 1930-31 season, soon becoming a regular in the Leeds half-back line. Together with his Leeds United teammate Billy Furness, he made his debut for England, against Italy on 13 May 1933. Copping played over 160 League games for Leeds in five seasons, and won six England caps during that time.

Arsenal

Copping was signed by Arsenal in the summer of 1934 for £8,000, as a replacement for Bob John, and immediately took a first-team place at left half. He made his debut against Portsmouth on 25 August 1934, and was an ever-present in his first season for the club, until suffering a serious knee injury in the third-last match of the season against Everton. Copping soldiered on and remained on the pitch to ensure Arsenal won the game 2–0; this ensured the club won the 1934-35 First Division title. Copping recovered from his injury to continue playing for Arsenal, making over 35 appearances in each of his first four seasons with the club. During his time at Highbury, Arsenal won the FA Cup in 1935-36, another League title in 1937-38, and two Charity Shields. His England career also continued, and he was one of seven Arsenal players to start England's match against Italy in November 1934 (the "Battle of…

Arsenal

Football League First Division: 1934–35, 1937–38 FA Cup: 1935–36 FA Charity Shield: 1934, 1938