James Brain (11 September 1900 – 1971) was an English professional football manager and player who played as a centre forward.
Born in Bristol, Brain started his career playing in Wales, having an unsuccessful trial at Cardiff City, before gaining a regular place at Ton Pentre.
After a year in the reserve side, Brain started his Arsenal first-team career with a goal on his debut, a 1–0 win against local rivals Tottenham Hotspur on 25 October 1924.
The next season, 1926–27, Brain scored 34 goals, this haul including two four-goal tallies against Sheffield Wednesday and Burnley.
Brain therefore missed Arsenal' 1930 Cup final win over Huddersfield Town; Jack and Lambert led the line that day.