[2] He signed professional forms in 1940 and due to his wartime occupation as a physical training instructor he remained local and made the left back spot his own from 1942–43 onwards, missing only one game from February 1943 to May 1945.
[2] The left-footed McCue's style was uncompromising, described as a 'grand kicker of the ball' and should an opposing winger get the better of him he would not averse the odd kick or two to rectify the situation.
[2] By 1948 Stoke's team-spirit was beginning to fall apart, with the loss of the title in 1947 and the departure of Stanley Matthews coupled with a number of big-name transfer failings caused rumbles of discontent with manager Bob McGrory.
[2] Under new manager Frank Taylor McCue retained his consistency as he remained a vital part of the "Potters" team for seven seasons in the Second Division.
[2] He eventually gave way to the younger Tony Allen and ended his 23-year association with Stoke City in 1960 joining Oldham Athletic at the age of 35.