David Layne
David "Bronco" Layne | |
|---|---|
| Born | July 29, 1939 Sheffield, England |
| Occupation | Footballer (retired) |
| Years active | 1957–1970s |
| Known for | Playing for Sheffield Wednesday; involvement in 1964 British betting scandal |
David "Bronco" Layne (born 29 July 1939 in Sheffield) is a retired English footballer, notable for his time with Sheffield Wednesday and his involvement in the British betting scandal of 1964.
Rotherham United
Layne commenced his football journey on a part-time basis at Rotherham United in 1957. During two seasons, he made eleven appearances and scored four goals before being granted a free transfer.
The moniker "Bronco" was derived from the American Western television series Bronco, which was broadcast in the UK as Layne's career progressed.
Swindon Town
While at Swindon Town, Layne proved to be a highly effective striker, scoring 28 goals across 41 matches.
Bradford City
In the midst of the 1960–61 season, Layne was acquired by Bradford City for a then club-record fee of £6,000. The following season, 1961–62, he set a new club milestone by netting 34 league goals. His impressive form attracted attention from larger clubs, culminating in a transfer in 1962 for £22,500—a record amount received by Bradford at that period.
Sheffield Wednesday
Layne's tenure at Sheffield Wednesday spanned two seasons during which he finished as the leading scorer each year, tallying 58 goals in 81 appearances. His playing career was disrupted after being implicated in the British betting scandal of 1964, where he was convicted of match-fixing and wagering against his own team. This resulted in imprisonment and a lifetime ban from professional football; however, the ban was rescinded after eight years. He returned to Sheffield Wednesday in 1972 but was unable to secure a regular place in the first team.
Hereford United
Following this, Layne was loaned to Hereford United, but retired from league competition after participating in only four matches.
Matlock Town
He ended his playing days at Matlock Town, where injury ultimately forced him to retire.
After playing
As of 2006, reports indicated that Layne was employed as a publican managing a pub in Sheffield.