South Yorkshire Times, April 2, 1949

Bolton Soccer Star Played 90 Games in two season: and Now!

Genial George Hebden, licensee of the Crossed Daggers, Bolton, capped four Times for England as a schoolboy, and an ex-Leicester goalkeeper, is exceedingly keen on football, but, due to one thing and another, is hardly ever able to see a game. He has seen only one match this season

Capped four times for England as a schoolboy in 1913-14, George joined the Navy at the age of 15 and turned out for the Navy at both football and cricket. When, after five years, he came out of the Navy in 1921, he signed on to play for Leicester City and stayed with them until 1928. In two seasons with the City he played in over 90 consecutive games and saw them rise to the top of the Second Division.

Leaving the City, he joined Queen’s Park Rangers and stayed with them for three years.

“Queen’s Park Rangers,” said George with a merry n twinkle in his eye, “held up the Division during that time — they were bottom!”

Eventually George left the Rangers and for some time was out of football. However, shortly before the war, he became coach and team manager to Leytonstone.

Since taking over the Cross Daggers three years ago, George has taken a great interest in Bolton Ings Lane Football Club.

Asked about his chances of seeing a game in the future, George smiled, said he had a car on order, and that if it arrived shortly and the petrol situation eased, he might be able to see a game. “When I shall get the car though,” he added, “I don’t know. It’s been on order three years now. As for petrol…..”