Tricky winger Sid joined the Gunners from his hometown club Luton Town in 1924.
He had signed for the Hatters as a teenager and played regularly for their junior sides until the outbreak of World War One. Then, aged 19, Sid joined the Army serving in the trenches of Northern France where a serious gas attack invalided him, throwing his future football career into doubt. However, after a full recovery, the midfielder became a permanent fixture for Luton during a five-year spell.
His performances in Bedfordshire were enough to persuade Arsenal manager Leslie Knighton to sign the versatile wideman for £3,000 in late 1924. After making his debut against Cardiff City on November 29, Sid, full name Sydney Walter Hoar, appeared a further 19 times that season.
His ability to perform down either flank helped him keep his place in the starting XI despite the arrival of a hatful of wingers throughout the late 1920s, including Welsh international Charlie Jones.
Sid also played for the Gunners in their famous FA Cup Final defeat to Cardiff City in 1927 when goalkeeper Dan Lewis’ error handed the trophy to the Welshmen.
After 117 appearances and 18 goals, the midfielder joined Clapton Orient (now known as Leyton Orient) for a fee of £1,000 in September 1929.
