John Poole (footballer, born 1932)

John Poole was born in Stoke-on-Trent on 12 December 1932. He did his national service with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and served in Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. He played just three Third Division matches in 1960–61, as Hancock firmly established himself as the club's preferred goalkeeper. Poole left on a free transfer in May 1961, and later played for Macclesfield Town and Werrington. Poole retired from playing in 1963. ==Style of play==

Poole was a goalkeeper with great anticipation and bravery. He played one game with a broken wrist. ==Personal life==

Upon his retirement he became a keen Port Vale fan; he co-founded the club's Ex-Players Association with former teammate Ken Hancock. He worked as a motor mechanic. He had two sons: Greg and Duncan; and two grandchildren: Reece Poole and Katie Poole. His uncle, Tom Davis, also played for Port Vale in the 1920s. Poole's death was announced by Port Vale on 19 November 2020. ==Career statistics==