Albert Johanneson to be honoured at Elland Road

Leeds United legend Albert Johanneson will be honoured at Elland Road with a Blue Plaque from the Leeds Civic Trust. The Leeds player is recognized as the first player of African heritage to play in an FA Cup final.

The Blue Plaque is set to be unveiled in the new year at Elland Road, almost over 54 years after Johanneson made history, as he played for Leeds United against Liverpool in the 1965 FA Cup final, which was won by Liverpool 2-1.

Johanneson was the first signing by legendary Leeds manager Don Revie in 1961, and Johanneson was a key member of the Leeds squad that gained promotion to the First Division in the 1963-64 season. His career was marred by the racism of the day, and after losing his starting role on the left wing to Eddie Gray, his appearances began to dwindle. Despite losing his place, Johanneson did not leave the club. He went to play nine seasons for Leeds.

Johanneson played at Leeds until 1970, and after making 172 appearances, and scoring 48 goals, he was released. He ended up going to York City in the lower leagues of English football, where he would make 26 appearances and score three goals.

Johanneson passed away in 1995 in Leeds, 30 years after his historic contribution to English football and Leeds United. Johanneson was only 55 years old at the time of his untimely death.