Born in Haltwhistle, Northumberland, Routledge was a sprinter before playing football and represented England Schools at international level.
[1][2] After failing to make any league appearances,[1] he moved to Wales to play for Bangor City in September 1929 an Colwyn Bay United in February 1930.
[1][2] He made 64 appearances and scored five goals in the league during three seasons for Rovers,[1] before signing for York City in May 1934.
[2] He captained the team for two seasons and after making 86 appearances and scoring one goal he moved to Carlisle United in May 1936.
[2] He made 16 appearances for them during the 1936–37 season and joined Scottish side St Mirren in February 1939.