But as a manager he became one of English football’s greatest. He guided Huddersfield Town to two First Division titles and an FA Cup between 1921 and 1925.
He followed that up by winning five League titles and two FA Cups as Arsenal dominated English football before his sudden death from pneumonia in 1934.
5. Team training at Arsenal
Arsenal defender Tom Parker takes a swing during a team training day at a golf course in Hatch End, 14th November 1929. Team-mate David Jack, manager Herbert Chapman and Alex James look on. Arsenal finished the season 14th in the league. Photo: MacGregor
6. Lining up a putt
Arsenal footballer Alex James considers his putt during a team training day at a golf course in Hatch End, 14th November 1929. Team mate Tom Parker, manager Herbert Chapman and David Jack look on. Photo: MacGregor
7. Team spirit is high
Arsenal players Tom Parker, David Jack and Alex James playing golf with manager Herbert Chapman, 14th November 1929. The club won their first ever piece of silverware this season, beating Chapman's old side Huddersfield Town 2-0 in the FA Cup final. Photo: Edward G. Malindine
8. FA Cup final build-up
Arsenal manager Herbert Chapman (centre), chats with a key member of his team , Alex James (right), on the pitch at Wembley before the FA Cup final on 13th April 1932. It ended in a 1-0 win for Cardiff City. Photo: J. Gaiger