The Rovers Return

Bob Crompton

Back in’t day I was the author of Rovers’ section at The Offside, now still being run by my successor, a young American chap called Jimmy who does a good job.

During my time there, I started a series of weekly posts, looking back at Rovers’ legends, and I have decided to bring this back, as it’s important not to lose touch with the roots of the club.

I’ll be honest, the first few are going to be a bit of a cheat as I’m going to regurgitate those I used at The Offside, although I’ll be re-writing them a bit as, looking back, my writing in those days was, to put it mildly, a bit shit (please don’t comment, I am aware it may still not be the best, but I’m always improving!)

Any series of this kind has to begin with a man a lot of people not too big on their Rovers history may not be aware of – Bob Crompton. The man heralded as our greatest ever player and a true one-club man.

Born in 1879, he was signed by Blackburn Rovers in 1896, aged just 17. He made his Rovers debut in 1897 as a right back. A position he would occupy for 23 years. He was given his England debut in 1902 – he would go on to make 41 appearances for his country, more than any other Rovers player. He later became England’s first ever professional captain! Read more »

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