Which team has most impressed you since the war?

The best team I have seen since the war is Aston Villa. I refer to their Cup-winning eleven of 1920, which was, in my opinion, the Villa of old. I saw them in a good many games that season, and the team work was splendid. The understanding was there. 

In Frank Barson, whom I still consider to be the best centre half-back, they had man with brains — another Alec Raisbeck; here, there, and everywhere, and, as the saying is, never out of his place.

Who was your best partner?

John Goodall was the man. We had such a good understanding. He was a great player partly because his advice so splendid. I have to thank him for a good many hints.

Which was your most memorable goal?

The goal I can picture most plainly to-day was scored for Derby County in the F.A. Cup semi-final against Stoke at Wolverhampton in 1899. 

I was sent pass from Johnny May, our left half-back — a long swinging pass, which I received one the half-way line. I took it in my stride. Away I went, and they were alter me — Alf Wood, James Bradley, and one or two more. I left them, kept good control, feinted and slipped Jack Eccles, left full-back. I let fly-hard — and what shot! The goalkeeper never saw it, though I was fifteen yards out.

Your most thrilling match?

My most memorible match was for England against Scotland in 1898 at Celtic Park. We won 3-1, and two of our goals fell to me. 

One of goals was from a pass by G. O. Smith — a great player. As soon He gave me the pass he said, "There you are, Bloomer.” and, though the late Dan Doyle, grand player, was front me, I got past him. From 18 yards I fired at goal — and it was there!

“G. O.” said in his quiet way, “Wonderful, Bloomer!”

It was a grand game, and I was very pleased with our win. You may have an idea what sort of a team England had when we had such men at John Goodall and Jimmy Crabtree as reserves. But there were two rare teams out that year.

Who was the greatest captain of your experience?

Again, John Goodall. There was no better. 

His advice during the game was shrewd and inspiring. If any weakness was arising in the opposing defence, he would soon let us know. We have pulled games out of the fire through Goodall's advice — a truly wonderful player.