Blain, Jimmy

Birth Date

9th April 1940

Birthplace

Mossley Hill, Liverpool

Occupation

Utility

Biographical Text

Jimmy Blain, a Liverpudlian originally with Everton, was a mainstay of Exeter City sides between 1965 and 1974. After playing for Southport, Rotherham and Carlisle he remained at St James’ Park for the remainder of his 500-match Football League career making 320 league appearances for the Grecians.

He arrived at Exeter in a cash plus player exchange deal that took winger Eric Welsh to Carlisle United, with the Grecians receiving a fee of £7,500. At the time he was regarded more as an inside forward or winger, but by the time he left St James’ Park several years later, he had enjoyed a successful time as a full-back.

He began his career as a junior with Everton, signing a full contract in May 1959. But it wasn’t until he moved to Southport in February 1960 that he gained his Football League debut, going on to score 40 goals in 127 outings for the Sandgrounders.

Jimmy signed for Rotherham United in December 1962, but didn’t enjoy the same sort of success, scoring just once in 23 league starts. In April 1964 he was transferred to Carlisle United adding a further seven goals in 41 starts.

Exeter signed the player in October 1965, and he made his debut for the Grecians in a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park against Swindon Town. This was to be the start of a long career with the City that saw him play in a number of positions, but eventually making the left back slot his own. He was Exeter City’s Player of the year in 1966-67.

On being given a free transfer at the end of 1973-74 season, he moved to Western League Barnstaple Town, but remained a frequent visitor to St. James’ Park on matchdays.

Appearances

Exeter City league games only

310

Appearances as Substitute

10

Goals

14

Files

Item Relations

Item: Jimmy Blain Relation This Item

Comments

Peter John Lacey

when jimmy played for rotherham my parents looked afterhis son in doncaster when his wife was in hospital for several weeks would be nice to know if he is still around

Paul Farley

John, Jimmy is still in Exeter and was attending games before the lockdown. 

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