Foxes A to Z; Johnny Anderson

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Here in a team group photo from 1953-54, John Anderson (five from left) as you see was on the short side for a goalkeeper. He nonetheless possessed sharp reflexes and a good sense of anticipatory positioning. Intermittent first team appearances marked his early years at Filbert Street.

He became a regular between the City sticks in 1951/52. He was an ever present in the League Division 2 Championship season of 1953/54. During that period he won an Scotland B cap as well as making his one and only full international apperances. This was in a 2-1 win vs. Finland.

John was chosen to represent Scotland in the 1954 World Cup Finals. Although named in the squad as understudy to Fred Martin, he did not travel. Scotland chose only to take 13 players to Switzerland.

Injury sidelined John from the Leicester run in to the 1956/57 championship. He was subsequently had to battle for the first team jersey with Dave MacLaren. In 1960 he moved to Peterborough. He had even worse look with “Posh”. He found himself permanent reserve during their record breaking season in the League. The only game he played for the first team was in a League Cup defeat.

In his early days playing for Athurlie he was part of a special happening. He played in the only Junior international to be hosted at Hampden Park. This was in May 1948, playing Ireland.

On retiring from playing football he set up a painting and decorating business in Leicester.

John Anderson died on the 22nd August 2001, 71 years of age.

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