1902 WM Clarke & Son Ltd “Football Series” William ("Billy") Meredith
This is the rookie card of William “Billy” Meredith issued in 1902 by WM Clarke & Son Ltd as a part of the series called “Football Series”. Meredith is considered by many to be the first, or at least one of the very first, real football superstars. He was named as the most popular player of the league, in a competition held by Umpire magazine in 1904. It has been said that he combined playing style of George Best with the attitude of Cantona. He played for Manchester City and Manchester United and his long career (he retired when he was 52!) was an adventure that among else included a bribery scandal during 1905. He is considered to be one of the top 5 players ever that have played for Manchester United.
About this card: Clarkes was a Wills sister brand of cigarettes and they both did the same set of footballers, separately branded, in 1902, same photos, similar numbers. The Wills brand isn’t on the front of the Wills card whereas Clarkes is. The Clarkes have a single back whereas Wills have 2 types, albeit only one per card I believe. The Clarke’s cards are definitely scarcer. (Thank you James for the info above)