Johnny Newman

Footballers do not come much more fearless than Johnny Newman.

A true leader, a man who played 327 times for Argyle, many as captain, between 1960 and 1967, Johnny died in November last year, aged 91, and left a lasting legacy. 

Newman spent several years at Birmingham City and, although his appearances were sporadic, he was part of a Blues promotion to the top tier, and played in the 1956 FA Cup Final. 

After three years at Leicester City, Johnny headed to Home Park, where he would have his finest years. For many supporters, Newman was their first captain, perhaps their first idol. He played with determination, desire and leadership throughout his time at Argyle, during which the Greens consistently featured in the second division, at one point finishing fifth. Newman was the skipper when Argyle reached the semi-finals of the League Cup, losing to Johnny’s former team, Leicester City.

When the Player of the Year award was first instituted at Argyle, Johnny Newman was the first recipient, winning in 1965/66.

Newman also played for, then managed, Exeter City, and would also manage Grimsby Town, Derby County and Hereford United.