Bobby was signed to Sunderland in May 1925, after being spotted by Charlie Buchan while playing for top non-league side Bishop Auckland.

He made his debut nearly a year later against West Ham United on 3 April 1926, scoring once in a 3–2 defeat.

[3] After Halliday's departure Gurney was regularly the club's top goalscorer, garnering his best tally of 33 goals in the 1930–31 season.

Gurney won one international cap, representing England against Scotland at Hampden Park before 129,693 spectators.

On retiring from playing he stayed in the game and in 1950 became manager of Midland League side Peterborough United.