Who was Arthur Wharton?

Unveiling of Arthur Wharton Statue

A statue of Arthur Wharton; the world's first black professional footballer; has been unveiled at St George's Park National Football Centre in Burton.

The plaque reads: Arthur Wharton: October 1865 - December 1930 "This statue commemorates Arthur Wharton, the world's first black professional footballer, and one of the early pioneers and trailblazers in sport. Wharton was also a professional cricketer, cycling champion, rugby player and the world's first official sprint champion achieving unparalleled success in the face of adversity."

Further information can be found at these links...

www.arthurwharton.com

www.itv.com/news/calendar/2014-10-16/statue-honours-arthur-wharton-the-w...

www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/29532529