John Thomas Alderson (28 November 1891 – 17 February 1972) was an English professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper, making one appearance for the full England national team.
While making guest appearances for West Auckland Wanderers during a set of friendlies against Barcelona in December 1912, club president Joan Gamper was impressed with his performances and signed him as player-coach.
[4][5] With the outbreak of World War I and with league football abandoned, Alderson served as a gunner in the Royal Garrison Artillery, whilst remaining on the books at Newcastle.
In 2005, Palace's centenary year, Alderson was voted their third best goalkeeper of all time, being beaten only by the more recent players Nigel Martyn (winner) and John Jackson (runner-up).
[9] With FA Cup holders Sheffield United looking for a replacement keeper, they turned to Alderson who had a reputation as a spectacular shot stopper and penalty saver.