McDonald was born in Greenock, Scotland, but started his professional career with Jarrow in north eastern England.
From Jarrow, he joined Everton of the Football League First Division in February 1900, making his first-team debut in a 0–0 draw against Blackburn Rovers on 31 March.
[1] After a year at Goodison Park during which he made 23 appearances with six goals,[2] McDonald moved to the south coast to join the Southern League champions, Southampton in May 1901.
[3] Although McDonald made two further appearances in November, his "ambitious temperament"[4] did not suit reserve team football and in December he moved to fellow Southern League Club, West Ham United.
[7] Despite being a "first-rate marksman",[4] McDonald was unable to command a regular starting place at "Pompey" and in the summer of 1903 he joined another Southern League club, Wellingborough.