Born in Scotswood, Newcastle upon Tyne Barclay is best remembered for his time at Sheffield United for whom he played in the 1936 FA Cup Final, but also had spells for Derby County and Huddersfield Town.

[2][3] He remained a stalwart at Bramall Lane and was an important figure in the Blades FA Cup side of 1936, appearing in the final in which United lost 1–0 to Arsenal.

[2] He was a regular for Town in the following seasons and once again found himself on the losing side at Wembley as Huddersfield were beaten 1–0 by Preston North End in the 1938 FA Cup Final.

[2] With the outbreak of World War II the football league was suspended but Town retained Barclay's registration throughout.

[4] Scoring on his debut Barclay found the net again in England's next game later the same year; another Home Championship fixture, this time against Ireland.