The first of Hammers' many successful signings from Midland League Gainsborough Trinity. John Morton became a professional at the age of 17 and made his Hammers debut against Arsenal at Upton Park in a 1-1 draw on the 26 March 1932. Went on to win international recognition when he partnered club-mate Len Goulden on England's left-wing against Czechoslovakia at White Hart Lane in 1937. Scored an international debut goal in the 5-4 victory.

Morton would have surely won more caps but for an untimely injury which resulted in Arsenal's Cliff Bastin taking his place. Although only a handful of his total appearances were in the First Division - during the ill-fated 1931-32 season - the speedy Yorkshireman became an automatic choice throughout the thirties up to the outbreak of WW2.

Born: 26 February 1914, Sheffield, Yorkshire, England

Died: 8 March 1986 (aged 72)

West Ham United Career: (1931-1939), Appearances: 275, Goals: 57

International: England (1 cap), Inter-League (3 caps)