Spurs in History - 4th July

4th July, 1946

Spurs Legend - 'Taffy O'Callaghan

This date marks the passing of one of Spurs heroes from the late 1920’s and early 1930’s. Eugene ‘Taffy’ O’Callaghan was born in Ebbw Vale and was working in the pits and playing for his local side when he was invited to join the groundstaff in 1925. He signed professional in September, 1926 and made his debut in the following January at Everton.

He was considered a good prospect and replaced Jimmy Seed, a long time hero of the club. He played in twelve of the final thirteen games of the season, scoring five goals. So well had he played that Seed was transferred and O’Callaghan went on to make 252 League appearances for the club and scored 92 goals before his transfer to Leicester City in March, 1935.

In the 1933 – 34 season he was part of one of the most exciting teams ever fielded by Spurs. They were known as the ‘greyhounds’ and having just been promoted they finished third. It was a ball-hungry side that played with speed and a style that had the enthusiasm of the fans at fever pitch throughout the season.