A genuine teenage prodigy, tried out in Southend’s reserve-team at the age of 15. Centre-forward Derek Hines was given an early baptism. From then on, he was gradually nursed into regular first team football. He still won England Youth international caps and, later, Army representative honours.
His scoring rate was somewhat eclipsed by that of striking partner Arthur Rowley. Derek Hines proved a wonderful forager, and made an inestimable contribution to both the promotion season of 1953-54 and 1956-57.
After winning his first Division Two championship medal, he continued to excel. He played and scored for Young England. This was against England in the then annual eve-of-Cup Final game. However, aside from the next year’s repeat, the selectors subsequently passed him over.
He was unlucky in missing out on City’s first two Wembley Finals. He was regarded as a lucky mascot reserve in 1949. He also served as a veteran calming influence on the 1961 squad. Derek Hines was the last City player to score 4 goals in a league game. This achievement occurred in a 6-3 home win over Aston Villa in November 1958. He later accepted Arthur Rowley’s invitation for a brief reunion at Shrewsbury Town. During this time, he produced eight goals from 20 League and Cup outings. Shortly after, he returned to Filbert Street as youth team coach.
He later also represented Rugby Town on occasions. Derek Hines passed away in 2001, 70 years of age.
FACTFILE:
- Full Name: Derek Jabez Hines
- Position: Forward
- Date of Birth: 18.02.1931
- Birthplace: Woodwille, Derbyshire
- Nation: England
- Caps / Goals: – / –
- Major League Career:
- 1948-61, Leicester City (299/116)
- 1961-62, Shrewsbury Town (16/5)
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