Former Stoke and Crewe player Johnny King dies aged 92
Former Stoke City and Crewe Alexandra player Johnny King has passed away
Last updated 4th Apr 2025
Fans from both Stoke City and Crewe Alexandra are mourning the death of former forward Johnny King, who has died at the age of 92.
King played for Stoke in the 1950s, scoring 113 goals in 311 appearances, putting him firmly on the list of the club's all-time scorers.
Following a breakthrough season with first club Crewe Alexandra, the striker moved to the Victoria Ground in 1953 and spearheaded City’s frontline in the Second Division over an eight-year period.
The naturally left-footed player, who stood at just 5ft 7in, got a shot at top-flight football when he moved to Cardiff City in 1961.
He played for 4 more years before hanging up his boots in 1967.
In a statement, Stoke City said: "We send our thoughts and sincere condolences to Johnny’s family and friends at this sad time."
Crewe Alexandra described King as "one of the best players to ever wear the red shirt".
He scored 185 goals in 591 games across his two spells with them.
The club continued to say: "The thoughts and condolences of everybody at Crewe Alexandra are with Johnny's friends and family at this difficult time."