Born in Oldham. He played for local teams and then joined Manchester United F.C, he played his first game for United in 1936 and appeared in a further 26 first team games before a spinal ailment curtailed his career.
He was appointed national director of coaching in 1946 and manager in May 1947. His first game was a 7-2 victory over Northern Ireland in September 1946. He managed the team (and arranged travel, accommodation and meals) through four World Cup competitions. He was succeeded by Alf Ramsey.
He received an OBE in 1963, a CBE in 1972 and a knighthood in 1978.