Tom Kelso

Born in Renton, in 1882. Tom came from a footballing family, following in the footsteps of his uncles, Bob and James. He started his career with Third Lanark, where he made 21 appearances between 1904 and 1906.

Manchester City became aware of his talents, and the club secretary made his way to Tom’s home in the hope of securing his signature. He was fortunate in his timing, arriving in the evening as Kelso returned home from his job as a marine engineer. Tom was on the verge of giving up playing football at this point. He had decided to move to China in relation to his “day job.” However, he had a change of heart and moved to Manchester, where he made a name for himself as one of the best backs in the game.

He was in the City team that won the Division Two title in 1910

In October 1913, both he and a fellow team mate, were granted a benefit match, against Newcastle United. This earned them both £500 each.

A move to Dundee, for a “nominal fee”, took place on 18^th February 1913. He came with glowing references being described as “speedy, fearless, and a powerful kicker.”

Tom made his debut for his new club against Partick Thistle in a Cup match at Firhill the following Saturday, taking the place of Jimmy Lawson. Dundee won 1-0, in front of a very hostile Thistle support, who vented most of their anger at Kelso.

A call up to the Scotland squad came in 1914, when selected to play against Wales, replacing the injured McNair. He was reported as having “played soundly, and was more than a match for the Welsh left-wing”, in a goalless draw.

Kelso’s reputation as a hard tackling defender attracted Glasgow Rangers, and he signed for them in May 1914. He had recently invested in a business opportunity in Glasgow, and wished to move back to the west coast. Dundee’s directors did encourage him to stay at Dens Park, but in the end had to settle for a “big cheque” from the Ibrox club.

Upon leaving Rangers in 1918, Tom played for Dumbarton. He then moved to Wales, joining Aberdare Athletic Club, before finally hanging up his boots.