The man responsible for Jack Charlton quiting Preston North End, well indirectly at least. For his sale to Newcastle United was said to have been the catalyst for Big Jack's departure from the North West Club when the club sanctioned his move to Newcastle United. Going the other way in the cash + player deal was Alex Bruce (who would turn out to be something of a sensation for Preston in the long run)

An extremely accomplished Centre Half, John adapted well to life int he top flight. But injuries would blight his career on Tyneside and, after 5 years, he was released on a free to Hartlepool