Colin Veitch

Years at United: 1899-1914

There were all-rounders and then there was Colin Veitch.

Barring playing in goal, Veitch appeared in just about every position imaginable during his lengthy stay at St. James’ Park and was lauded as the most versatile player in the country before World War One broke out in 1914.

Described as “a man who is the master of his job”, Heaton-born Veitch was one of the cornerstones of the club’s Edwardian success, scoring 49 goals in 322 appearances.

An eminent name not only on Tyneside but in the history of the game, he was an outstanding schoolboy player in the Byker and Heaton area before joining United in 1899.

Veitch was captain on occasions and was the first United player to lift the FA Cup in 1910 when the Magpies defeated Barnsley 2-0 in the replayed final at Goodison Park.

He preferred a midfield role but if placed in defence he could dictate play and control the game with calm assurance.

He won six England caps between 1906-09 but that was a poor return for one of the most outstanding players of his time.

Indeed it was claimed his versatility counted against him, which meant he was left out of the starting XI on a number of occasions.

Veitch was an articulate scholar, musician, actor and playwright - instrumental in the founding of Newcastle's People's Theatre - and he was also a leading activist in the Players’ Union.

Other Hall of Fame inductees: