John Matthews joined Arsenal as an apprentice in 1971 but did not make his league debut for the Club until three years later, against Leicester City.
Initially a defender, Matthews moved into midfield but struggled to secure a regular first-team place. A broken ankle in December 1975 further halted his progress and, after 57 appearances, he left to join Sheffield United in 1978.
Matthews spent four years at Bramall Lane before spells at Mansfield Town, Chesterfield, Plymouth and Torquay. He also ran his own office furniture company in the Plymouth area.
John Matthews
