Rest in peace: Gerry Francis | OneFootball

Leeds United are saddened to hear of the passing of former player Gerry Francis aged 91.

The South African winger represented the club between 1957 and 1961, becoming the first black footballer to play for Leeds and would go on to score nine goals in 50 appearances.

A true pioneer, Francis was also the first black South African to play in England’s top division and featured in Don Revie’s opening match in charge of Leeds, alongside Billy Bremner and Jack Charlton in March 1961 against Portsmouth.

Having left his homeland during the height of Apartheid, Gerry swapped his role in a shoe manufacturing company to become his country’s second black footballer to play abroad professionally.

The attacker would welcome the signing of compatriot Albert Johanneson, with whom he would share the pitch on three occasions on opposite flanks and was best man at his wedding.

Following his time at Elland Road, Francis then joined York City before moving onto Tonbridge. Gerry passed away over the weekend in Canada surrounded by his family.

Rest in peace.