Quote:Everyone at Huddersfield Town is saddened to learn of the passing of legendary defender John Coddington, aged 85.


John was among the standout players of the fifties and sixties at Huddersfield Town, making over 350 appearances in the blue and white stripes. His formidable, uncompromising style made him a fan favourite during his 12 years of dedicated service to the club.

Born in Worksop in 1937, John played for Worksop Boys Club before joining Town in 1953 shortly after leaving school in Shirebrook; a school that future teammate Ray Wilson also attended. John signed as a part-timer in 1955 and soon made his debut in the difficult 1955/56 season against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

After a spell on National Service, John returned and signed a full-time contract in 1958, aged 21 and immediately became a regular in the side. Known for being dominant in the air and nearly impossible to knock off the ball, he was a first choice of manager Bill Shankly. In fact, he barely missed a game over the next eight seasons in the Second Division and was named captain by the following manager, Eddie Boot.

John’s teammates included Denis Law, the aforementioned Wilson, Kevin McHale and even Frank Worthington, amid many other famous names in our history.

John was also given the responsibility of being penalty taker, and most of his 18 goals for Town came from the spot.

His time at Town eventually ended in 1967. John spent three years with Blackburn Rovers before a move to Stockport County, and after hanging up his boots he was chief coach for Bradford City and Middlesbrough.

John currently stands 13th in our all-time appearance list, behind former teammate Les Massie and just ahead of current club captain Jonathan Hogg.

John’s grandson, Luke, a goalkeeper, also played for Town at Academy level in the 2016/17 season.

Our thoughts are with Luke, John's son Matty and the rest of John’s family, and friends, at this difficult time.