Memories in pictures of Tom Walley's Watford career

The Welshman became an outstanding developer of talented young players during the golden era under Graham Taylor, but prior to that his strength and commitment to the club’s cause had seen him become an integral part of the Watford team in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Signed from Arsenal in March 1967 by Ken Furphy, Walley made 43 league appearances in his first season and was then an ever-present in the 1968/69 campaign as Watford were promoted to the Second Division for the first time.

Walley joined Orient in December 1971 but returned to Vicarage Road in May 1976. Injury was to end his playing career but he became youth-team coach and helped bring a stream of talent including Nigel Gibbs, Kenny Jackett, Nigel Callaghan and John Barnes through to the first team.

Tom Walley shakes hands with manager Ken Furphy. (Image: Watford Observer)

Here are ten pictures from our archive of one of the most significant people in the club’s history during his time at Vicarage Road.

A race to the ball. (Image: Watford Observer)

The wing-half made a total of 248 league and cup appearances at Watford. (Image: Watford Observer)

In full flight. (Image: Watford Observer)

Stretching to jump as high as possible. (Image: Watford Observer)

Closing down in numbers. (Image: Watford Observer)

Eyes on the ball as Walley strikes a free-kick. (Image: Watford Observer)

Enjoying a lighter moment on the coaching bench. (Image: Watford Observer)

Tom Walley has so much to be proud of from his years at Vicarage Road. (Image: Watford Observer)