stafford_harry
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| Name: Harry Stafford |
Nationality: England |
| Position: right-back |
Signing Information: Transferred from: Crewe Alexandria, 03/1896, £ |
| Birthdate: 29-11-1869 |
Years at Club: 1896-1904 |
| Age: (155) |
Debut: 03/04/1896 v Darwen (Bank Street) 4-0 (League Division Two) |
| Birthplace: Crewe, England |
Previous clubs: Southport Central, Crewe Alexandria |
| Height: 5' 9" (1.75m) |
Farewell to Manchester United: Retired from game 05/1904 |
| Weight: 12st 9lbs (80.29kg) |
Passed Away: 24/10/1940 |
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Harry Stafford: The Unsung Hero Who Saved Manchester United from Extinction
When discussing the rich history of Manchester United, many fans immediately think of legendary players like George Best, Eric Cantona, or Cristiano Ronaldo. However, one figure from the club’s earliest days deserves more recognition for his critical role in shaping what would become one of the world’s greatest football clubs: Harry Stafford. Without his efforts, there may have never been a Manchester United as we know it today.
Who Was Harry Stafford?
Harry Stafford joined Newton Heath—the club that would later become Manchester United—in 1896. As a talented and hard-nosed right-back, Stafford quickly established himself as a key player, and soon after, he was appointed club captain. At a time when the club was struggling both on and off the pitch, Stafford’s leadership and resilience kept Newton Heath competitive, even in the face of numerous challenges.
Harry Stafford: The Man Who Saved Manchester United
Harry Stafford’s most remarkable achievement came off the field. By 1902, Newton Heath was in dire financial straits and on the verge of folding. The club was burdened with debt, and it seemed like its days were numbered. However, in a stroke of fortune, Stafford became the unlikely hero who would ensure the club’s survival.
At a fundraising event meant to save the club, Stafford’s St. Bernard dog, named Major, wandered off and was found by John Henry Davies, a wealthy local brewery owner. Stafford’s bond with Major, coupled with his impassioned plea to Davies, persuaded the businessman to invest in the club. This investment not only saved Newton Heath from financial ruin but also paved the way for its rebranding as Manchester United.
Stafford’s Legacy
Though Stafford retired as a player shortly after in 1903, his legacy endures as one of the most important figures in Manchester United’s history. His leadership on the field and crucial role in securing the investment that saved the club are what make him an unsung hero in the world of football. Without Stafford’s intervention, Manchester United may never have existed, or it would have taken a very different path.
Why Harry Stafford Matters to Manchester United History
Every Manchester United fan should know the story of Harry Stafford. His contribution to the club’s survival is not just a piece of trivia but a defining chapter in the history of the club. At a time when football was still growing as a sport, and clubs were often financially precarious, Stafford’s actions ensured that Manchester United could go on to become one of the most successful and iconic teams in the world.
Discover the Forgotten History of Manchester United: Harry Stafford’s Story
Want to learn more about the incredible legacy of Harry Stafford and how he saved Manchester United? Dive deeper into his history and other Manchester United legends by exploring our dedicated articles on mufcinfo.com. |
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| League |
League Cup |
FA Cup |
Charity Shield |
European Cup |
Europa League |
Super Cup |
Cup Winners Cup |
Inter-Continental Cup |
World Clubs Cup |
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Season
Goals |
Season
Apps |
| 1 |
1895-1896 |
0 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
| 2 |
1896-1897 |
0 |
24 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
8 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
32 |
| 3 |
1897-1898 |
0 |
25 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
25 |
| 4 |
1898-1899 |
0 |
33 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
35 |
| 5 |
1899-1900 |
0 |
31 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
32 |
| 6 |
1900-1901 |
0 |
30 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
33 |
| 7 |
1901-1902 |
0 |
26 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
27 |
| 8 |
1902-1903 |
0 |
10 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
12 |
| TOTALS |
0 |
183 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
17 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
200 |
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