George Groves (footballer)

George Jasper Groves (19 October 1868 – 18 February 1941) was an English footballer who played as a defender, primarily for Sheffield United. He also played first-class cricket for Nottinghamshire.

Football career

Born in Nottingham Groves was an amateur player who played regularly in the Sheffield area from around 1888 when he represented Heeley. He moved to Sheffield Club later the same year but almost immediately began guesting for nearby Sheffield United (as allowed by FA rules regarding amateurs). After appearing regularly in friendly and exhibition fixtures he was signed on a permanent basis by United in March 1891 and remained with the club until the summer of 1896.

Known as 'Mr. Groves' in match reports he was initially a regular for United and was usually named captain but less than a year after joining he moved to London and from then on would only make irregular appearances for the club. He would also appear as a guest for Woolwich Arsenal during the same period but with the game becoming increasingly professional he drifted away from league football.