John Thomas Nicholas (26 November 1910 – 8 February 1977) was an English professional footballer who played as a wing half and right back for Derby County.

In 1926, he signed as a youth player for Derby at aged 16, after Swansea Town declined his request for a professional contract.

Nicholas also served as caretaker manager and player-manager during World War II and captained the team during their 1946 FA Cup Final victory.

[2] After signing as a youth player from Swansea in 1926,[3] Nicholas spent his entire professional career with Derby County, making 347 appearances for them in the Football League between 1928 and 1947.

He made the position his own the following season after McIntyre transferred to Chesterfield, later moving to right-back in 1934 when Tom Cooper joined Liverpool.

[2] During World War II, Nicholas joined the Derby Borough Police Force, after a period of serving with them as a special constable.