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Jose Baxter
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Jose Baxter
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Jose Baxter (born 7 February 1992) is an English former professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder.

Key Information

Born in Bootle, Baxter began his career with his home town club of Everton, where in 2008 he became the Premier League's then-second youngest ever starter at 16 years 191 days (Matthew Briggs of Fulham held the record – 16 years 68 days – from 2007 until it was surpassed in 2019 by Harvey Elliott).[5]

After having been on the fringes of the first team and spending time on loan at Tranmere Rovers, he rejected a new contract in 2012 in order to find regular football elsewhere. He joined Oldham Athletic shortly afterwards, where he spent a successful season before being bought by Sheffield United just under 12 months later.

After a three-year period in Yorkshire interrupted by suspensions, he was released and had a spell without a club before Everton signed him again in 2017 to rebuild his career in their reserve squad.[6] He returned to Oldham in the summer of 2018. In July 2019, he signed for Plymouth Argyle, and left them in November 2019.[7]

Baxter represented England at both under-16 and under-17 level.

Club career

[edit]

Everton

[edit]

Baxter joined Everton as a six-year-old.[8][6] He remained as a youth player until 2008 when he trained with the first-team squad on tours to Switzerland and the United States two months after leaving school.

Baxter made his professional début for the club on the opening day of the 2008–09 season coming on as a 78th-minute substitute for Nuno Valente in a home game against Blackburn Rovers,[9] becoming Everton's youngest ever senior player in the process, aged 16 years and 191 days,[6] beating the record previously held by teammate James Vaughan.

Baxter was named in the starting line up to play West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns, becoming the youngest Everton player ever to start a game,[10] and March 2009 he signed a new two-and-a-half-year contract with Everton.[11] Baxter remained in the squad, making a number of substitute appearances in 2009–10 season. He also played in the UEFA Europa League against BATE Borisov at Goodison Park.

Baxter joined Tranmere Rovers on loan in September 2011 and went on to score on his debut against Preston North End. The loan was extended several times until January 2012, when he was recalled by Everton.[12] Still on the fringes of the first team, Baxter rejected a new contract from Everton and was released at the end of the 2011–12 season.[12]

Oldham Athletic

[edit]

Following his release from Everton, Baxter had a trial at Crystal Palace but did not earn a contract.[13] He subsequently signed for League One side Oldham Athletic in September 2012, agreeing a four-month contract.[14] He made his debut for the club the following day, scoring in a 2–2 draw versus Notts County.[15]

Playing and scoring regularly, Baxter's form drew interest from other league clubs but in January 2013 he signed a new 2+1⁄2-year deal with Oldham.[16] Baxter started the 2013–14 season as a first team regular, but a brace against Stevenage in a 4–3 opening day victory prompted renewed interest from other clubs in acquiring his services.

Sheffield United

[edit]

Baxter reunited with his former Everton youth manager David Weir when he signed for Sheffield United for £500,000, agreeing a three-year deal.[17] On 7 September 2013, Baxter scored his first Sheffield United goal against South Yorkshire rivals Rotherham United in a 3–1 defeat.[18] With the arrival of Nigel Clough as United's manager, Baxter eventually began to cement his place in the first team, scoring six goals in the process, and was nominated for the League One 'Player of the Month' award for December 2013.[19] He played in the semi-final of the 2013–14 FA Cup at Wembley Stadium and scored the opening goal, but opponents Hull City won the tie 5–3.[20]

On 7 December 2014, he converted two penalties in a 3–0 home victory against Plymouth Argyle to send the Blades to the Third Round of the FA Cup.[21] On 10 February 2015, Baxter scored a brace in a 4–1 home victory over Colchester United.[22]

On 16 May 2015, Baxter was suspended by Sheffield United after failing a drugs test.[23] In July, the FA handed him a five-month suspension (three of which suspended) for testing positive for ecstasy, which he claimed was ingested in a spiked drink.[24] He was suspended by his club again in February 2016.[25] He was subsequently released in May 2016.[26][6]

Return to Everton

[edit]

On 27 January 2017, Baxter was handed a lifeline by former club Everton who offered him a 12-month contract which would begin when his year-long suspension from football ended on 1 July 2017. Despite not making an appearance for the first team, he played ten games for the club's Under-23s over the course of the season, assisting two goals. He was released by Everton at the end of the 2017–18 season.[6]

Return to Oldham Athletic

[edit]

On 30 May 2018, Baxter returned to Oldham Athletic five years after leaving the club; he signed a one-year contract with an option of a further year and was given the squad number eight, previously worn by Ollie Banks. Baxter made his second debut for Latics in a pre-season game versus Ashton United where he scored the second goal in a 3–1 victory.

Plymouth Argyle

[edit]

On 25 July 2019, Baxter joined Plymouth Argyle on a short-term deal following his release from Oldham.[27] Baxter made his debut as a substitute in Argyle's 3–0 victory over Crewe Alexandra on the first day of the 2019–20 season.[28] A calf injury sustained hindered Baxter's stint with the Pilgrims, with his contract terminated in November 2019 [29] During his time with Plymouth Argyle Baxter was favourably received, with a notable performance against Swindon Town.[30]

Memphis 901

[edit]

On 19 February 2020, Baxter joined American side Memphis 901 FC, a member of the second-tier USL Championship.[31]

He retired on 8 August 2021 at the age of 29.[32]

International career

[edit]

Baxter has represented England at both U16 and U17 levels.[citation needed] He played in the first two games of the 2009 Under 17 European Championships but missed the third after picking up two yellow cards.[citation needed]

Coaching career

[edit]

After retiring as a player, Baxter returned to his former club to work as a coach as part of the Everton academy.[33] In May 2025, he joined the Malaysia national team as assistant coach.[34]

Personal life

[edit]

Having grown up on Merseyside, Baxter is a fan of local team Liverpool.[35] In October 2009, Baxter was one of three men arrested in Kirkby on suspicion of possession of cannabis with intent to supply, and on suspicion of possessing counterfeit money.[36] He was subsequently released without charge.[12]

Career statistics

[edit]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season Division League FA Cup League Cup Other Total
Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Everton 2008–09[37] Premier League 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0
2009–10[38] Premier League 2 0 0 0 0 0 5[a] 0 7 0
2010–11[39] Premier League 1 0 1 0 0 0 — 2 0
2011–12[40] Premier League 1 0 0 0 1 0 — 2 0
Total 7 0 1 0 2 0 5 0 15 0
Tranmere Rovers (loan) 2011–12[40] League One 14 3 0 0 0 0 1[b] 0 15 3
Oldham Athletic 2012–13[41] League One 39 13 6 2 0 0 0 0 45 15
2013–14[42] League One 4 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 2
Total 43 15 6 2 1 0 0 0 50 17
Sheffield United 2013–14[42] League One 35 6 8 2 0 0 2[b] 0 45 8
2014–15[43] League One 34 10 6 2 6 0 2[b] 1 48 13
2015–16[44] League One 24 4 1 1 1 0 2[b] 2 28 7
Total 93 20 15 5 7 0 6 3 121 28
Everton 2017–18[45] Premier League 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Everton U21s 2017–18[45] — — — 1[b] 0 1 0
Oldham Athletic 2018–19[46] League Two 29 4 2 0 1 0 2[b] 0 34 4
Plymouth Argyle 2019–20[47] League Two 9 0 0 0 2 1 1[b] 0 12 1
Memphis 901 2020[48] USL Championship 8 1 — — — 8 1
Career total 203 43 24 7 13 1 16 3 256 54
  1. ^ Appearance(s) in UEFA Europa League
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Appearance(s) in Football League Trophy

Honours

[edit]

England U-16

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Jose Baxter

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Jose Baxter (born 7 February 1992) is an English football coach and former professional player who primarily operated as an attacking midfielder. Best known as a prodigious talent at Everton, where he became the second-youngest player to start a match at 16 years and 191 days old, Baxter's career was defined by early promise, significant achievements in the lower tiers, and personal challenges including and gambling addiction that ultimately led to his in 2021. Since then, he has transitioned into coaching, currently serving as U15 lead coach at Everton (as of November 2025) and assistant coach for the senior national team. Born in , , Baxter joined Everton's academy at the age of six and quickly rose through the ranks, representing at youth international levels up to Under-19. He made his senior debut for Everton in August 2008 as a substitute against Blackburn Rovers, going on to feature in 15 first-team matches, including in the Europa League and domestic cups. After leaving Everton in 2012, he signed with Athletic, where he enjoyed a prolific spell, scoring 13 goals in 39 League One appearances during the 2012–2013 season. His career peaked further at United, whom he joined for a £1 million fee in 2013; there, he established himself as the club's top scorer over several seasons and notably netted in their 2014 semi-final run. Later moves included loans and permanent transfers to clubs such as Plymouth Argyle and a stint with in the United States, but his playing days were curtailed by suspensions. Baxter's professional trajectory was disrupted by off-field issues, including a 2009 arrest that resulted in no charges, a five-month drug ban in 2015, and a more severe 2.5-year suspension in 2016 for repeated violations. He has publicly reflected on his struggles with cocaine addiction and compulsive gambling, which he described as risking "everything in life" and twice bringing him to the brink of suicide during his 2016 ban. Following his retirement at age 29, Baxter returned to Everton in 2021 to work in the academy, initially as an assistant before advancing to lead the Under-15 group. In May 2025, he expanded his responsibilities by joining the Malaysia senior national team's coaching staff as an assistant under head coach Peter Cklamovski, maintaining a joint arrangement with his Everton duties to support preparations for international fixtures, including Asian Cup qualifiers. Baxter is pursuing UEFA coaching qualifications with aspirations to become a head manager.

Early life and youth career

Early life

Jose Baxter was born on 7 February 1992 in , , , to a local family with deep roots in the area. His father, Andy Baxter, was a gifted footballer who worked as and provided strong support throughout his son's early development. Growing up in a close-knit household, Baxter was immersed in the passionate football culture of from a young age. As a child, Baxter developed a keen interest in football and supported , influenced by his father and uncles who were devoted fans of the club. This allegiance was somewhat unusual given his Bootle origins, a neighborhood closely associated with nearby , but it reflected the intense rivalry and widespread enthusiasm for the sport in the region. The local environment, with its history of producing talents amid the fervor, played a key role in fostering his early passion for the game. Baxter's initial involvement in organized football came through casual games on local pitches, such as the Jericho Lane playing fields in , where he showcased his skills during Saturday morning matches. At the age of six, he was scouted by Everton academy coach Martin Waldron after scoring three goals in one such game, including a standout long-range effort, marking his first significant recognition. This led to his entry into Everton's youth system, where his professional development began in earnest.

Everton academy

Baxter joined Everton's academy at the age of six after being scouted by coach Martin Waldron while playing on local pitches in . He quickly progressed through the youth ranks, demonstrating exceptional technical ability as an attacking known for his creativity and willingness to attempt ambitious plays. By age 14, Baxter was representing Everton's under-18s team and earning call-ups to the under-17 side, showcasing his rapid development and advanced skill level for his age. In the academy, Baxter's standout performances included finishing as top scorer in the Milk Cup youth tournament at age 15 and breaking club youth goalscoring records previously held by , , and . Everton's then-academy director Ray Hall praised him highly, stating that Baxter was even better at 16 than Rooney had been at the same age. These achievements led to Baxter training with Everton's senior squad during pre-season tours and ultimately becoming the club's youngest player to feature in a match at 16 years and 191 days old in 2008.

Senior club career

Everton debut

Baxter made his senior debut for Everton on 16 August 2008, coming on as a substitute in a 3–2 home defeat to Blackburn Rovers at . Aged 16 years and 191 days, he became the club's youngest-ever first-team player, entering the match in the 82nd minute as an attacking midfielder to replace . Despite the late introduction, Baxter nearly equalized in stoppage time with a stretching volley that was tipped over by Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson. He followed this with his full debut a week later on 23 2008, starting in a 1–1 away draw against West Bromwich Albion, where he played 68 minutes before being substituted by . Over the next three seasons, Baxter's first-team opportunities remained scarce, totaling just 14 appearances across all competitions—seven in the (one start), four in the , and three in domestic cups—with no goals scored. His limited involvement stemmed from intense competition in midfield from established players like and , as well as recurring injuries, including a tear that sidelined him for much of the 2009–10 campaign. To gain more playing time, Baxter was loaned to League One side Tranmere Rovers in September 2011 for an initial one-month spell, which was later extended. During the 2011–12 season, he made 15 appearances (14 starts) and scored three goals, adapting well to the physical demands of the third tier while showcasing his technical ability in central midfield. Notable contributions included goals against and Town, helping Tranmere maintain a mid-table position. This loan spell provided valuable senior experience, building on the strong foundation from his Everton academy days.

Oldham Athletic (first spell)

After leaving Everton as a following a spell at Tranmere Rovers that provided valuable senior experience, Baxter joined League One side Athletic in 2012 on an initial four-month contract. His performances quickly earned him a contract extension in January 2013, committing him to the club until the summer of 2015 on a two-and-a-half-year deal. Baxter's 2012–13 season marked his breakout at , where he established himself as a creative attacking and key goal threat. He made 45 appearances across all competitions, scoring 15 goals to become the club's top scorer that campaign, including notable strikes in league matches and the upset victory over . His form highlighted a blend of vision, dribbling, and finishing that transformed Oldham's attack, contributing to a solid mid-table finish in League One while earning praise for his rapid adaptation to full-time senior football. In August 2013, Baxter departed for Sheffield United in a transfer reportedly worth around £500,000, signing a three-year contract and ending his productive first spell at the club after just under a year. This move reflected his rising stock from the previous season's highs, though it also signaled the beginning of broader challenges in his career trajectory.

Sheffield United

Baxter joined Sheffield United from Athletic on 29 August 2013, signing a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee reported to be around £500,000, following his impressive form at where he scored 15 goals in 45 appearances the previous season. Under manager , he quickly established himself in the League One side, making 38 appearances and scoring 6 goals in his debut 2013–14 season, contributing to a sixth-place finish and playoff qualification, though the team lost in the semi-finals to Rotherham United. In the 2014–15 season, Baxter played a key role in Sheffield United's promotion push, featuring in 37 matches and netting 11 goals as the team finished fifth in League One and reached the playoff semi-finals, where they were eliminated by Swindon Town on aggregate. His form earned him the club's Player of the Month award in December 2014. Over his time at , Baxter made 110 appearances across all competitions, scoring 28 goals. Baxter's tenure was marred by off-field issues, beginning with a failed in May 2015 that returned positive for ecstasy, resulting in a five-month suspension from , three months of which were suspended. He was suspended again by the club in February 2016 following another failed drugs test, limiting his involvement to 28 appearances and 7 goals that season as Sheffield United finished 11th in League One. These incidents culminated in his release by Sheffield United in May 2016 upon the expiry of his contract.

Everton (return)

Following his release from Sheffield United amid suspensions for breaching club welfare policies, Jose Baxter signed a short-term contract with Everton in January 2017, providing an opportunity for career rehabilitation at his former club. The arrangement allowed him to begin training immediately with the under-23 squad, ahead of an official 12-month deal that commenced in July 2017 upon the expiration of his external drugs ban. This return was framed as a supportive environment for personal and professional recovery, with Everton's academy staff emphasizing a fresh start focused on fitness and team integration. During the 2017–18 season, Baxter participated in several under-23 matches, including competitive fixtures in the 2, but received no opportunities in the first-team squad under manager or his successor . His involvement remained limited to youth-level play, where he aimed to rebuild match sharpness and demonstrate reliability, though injuries and ongoing personal challenges hindered progress. Everton's leadership, including academy director , praised Baxter's attitude and professionalism during training sessions, viewing the stint as a low-pressure phase for addressing broader life issues beyond football. Baxter was released by Everton in the summer of 2018 after failing to earn a permanent first-team position, concluding a period marked by rehabilitation efforts but no senior impact. The club extended support throughout, helping him navigate personal recovery from substance-related issues that had previously derailed his career, though the outcome underscored the challenges of regaining elite-level form.

Oldham Athletic (second spell)

Baxter rejoined Oldham Athletic on 30 May 2018, signing a one-year contract after spending the previous season training with Everton's under-23 side as a means to regain match fitness following earlier career setbacks. This move marked his return to the club where he had previously thrived during his first spell from 2012 to 2014, allowing him to contribute in League Two under manager . During the 2018-19 season, Baxter featured prominently in Oldham's midfield, making 29 appearances in the league and scoring 4 goals, while adding 1 assist. He also played 3 cup matches without finding the net, bringing his total contributions to 32 appearances and 4 goals across all competitions. Notable moments included his second debut in a pre-season friendly against Ashton United, where he scored in a 3-1 win, signaling a positive start to his reintegration. Despite Oldham's struggles, finishing 17th in League Two, Baxter's creativity and set-piece ability provided key moments, such as assisting in tight fixtures, though injuries and form fluctuations limited his consistency. Baxter's contract expired at the end of the 2018-19 season, and on 8 May 2019, Oldham Athletic announced his release as part of their retained list, alongside players like Peter Clarke. This departure concluded his second spell at the club after one year, during which he had helped stabilize the midfield but could not prevent the team's mid-table position.

Plymouth Argyle

In July 2019, Jose Baxter signed a short-term contract with Plymouth Argyle, joining the League Two club as a following his departure from Athletic. The deal, initially set for six months, came after Baxter had recently overcome a 12-month ban from the FA due to a positive drugs test, which had limited his availability in prior seasons. During his time at , Baxter struggled with fitness issues and inconsistency, managing only nine appearances across all competitions without scoring any goals. He started three league matches and made six substitute outings, totaling 388 minutes on the pitch, but failed to secure a regular place in the lineup amid ongoing recovery challenges. Baxter's stint ended prematurely on 14 November 2019, when Plymouth Argyle and the midfielder mutually agreed to terminate his contract, citing injury concerns and a lack of form as key factors. This departure marked a brief and unproductive chapter in his career, with the club expressing support for his future endeavors.

Memphis 901 and retirement

Following the termination of his contract with Plymouth Argyle in November 2019 due to ongoing injury issues, Baxter moved abroad in search of a fresh start, signing with of the on 19 February 2020. The club, based in and partially owned by former Everton goalkeeper , viewed the 28-year-old attacking midfielder as a experienced addition to their inaugural roster. Baxter featured in eight matches during the 2020 USL Championship season, scoring once in 510 minutes of play, primarily as a substitute. His debut came in a 1-0 win over Birmingham Legion on 7 March, but the campaign was severely disrupted by the , which suspended play for several months and limited team cohesion. The disruptions, combined with travel restrictions and isolation far from family in , compounded challenges for Baxter, who was adjusting to life in the United States. The 2021 season proved even more restricted for Baxter, with persistent injuries stemming from a deconditioned body after prior career interruptions preventing meaningful involvement; he made no competitive appearances before departing the club in . These setbacks, alongside and a desire to be closer to his young daughter, ultimately led him to return to the without securing a new contract despite interest from clubs in , , and further USL opportunities. On 8 August 2021, at the age of 29, Baxter announced his retirement from professional football via , concluding a 13-year career that included over 200 senior appearances across multiple leagues. In an emotional post, he reflected on his journey, expressing regret over "silly mistakes" early in adulthood—including drug-related bans in 2015 and 2016 for ecstasy and traces, respectively—that led to a three-year absence from the game and suicidal thoughts during periods of depression. Baxter acknowledged underachieving relative to his prodigious potential as Everton's youngest-ever debutant, but emphasized gratitude toward supporters, family, and coaches, stating, "YOU LIVED IT SON," while committing to use his experiences to mentor young players.

Youth international career

England U16

Baxter earned his initial call-up to the under-16 squad in 2007, drawing from his strong performances in the Everton academy, where he had been a standout attacking . His background from further aligned him with the national youth setup. Between 2007 and 2008, Baxter accumulated 8 caps for the U16 team, during which he scored 3 goals across friendlies and competitive fixtures. His contributions included a goal in the 2007 against , helping secure a 2–1 victory with a first-half strike alongside . A highlight came in the 2008 Tournoi de Montaigu, where Baxter featured prominently in the tournament squad and showcased his midfield creativity by scoring in a group stage match against in a 3–1 victory on 19 March 2008, contributing to England's successful campaign as winners. He also netted once in U16 friendlies that year, underlining his emerging role as a goal-scoring in the side.

England U17

Jose Baxter's progression to the England U17 team built on the confidence gained from his earlier successes at U16 level, where he had begun to establish himself as a promising attacking . He made 12 appearances and scored 5 goals for U17 between and 2009. In the qualifying rounds for the , Baxter contributed significantly to 's campaign, scoring in a dominant 7-0 victory over on 25 2008, where his first-half goal helped secure top spot in the group alongside and . advanced undefeated from the initial qualifying round and then progressed through the elite round in March 2009, drawing 1-1 with hosts in a key match that ensured qualification for the finals. At the finals in , Baxter featured prominently in England's , captaining the side in their opening 1-1 draw against the on 6 May 2009, where he threatened early but saw England equalize late through after falling behind. He started the second group match against hosts on 9 May 2009, playing 80 minutes in a 4-0 defeat that highlighted the step-up in competition against stronger European sides, with Baxter positioned higher in midfield amid tactical adjustments due to injuries. However, yellow cards in both the (76th minute) and (79th minute) games led to his suspension for the decisive 1-0 loss to on 12 May 2009; he was named as an unused substitute but could not feature as England were eliminated from the group stage and failed to qualify for the . Baxter's U17 experience underscored his growth in high-stakes environments, blending creative contributions against lesser opposition in qualifiers with the physical and disciplinary challenges posed by elite tournament fixtures.

England U19

Baxter's involvement with the under-19 team marked the conclusion of his youth international career during the 2010–2011 period, as he shifted focus toward establishing himself in senior professional football. Although listed as a former international for the age group, he did not record any competitive caps or appearances in qualifiers or other matches. This phase followed his earlier successes at under-17 level, where he had contributed to 's run in the 2009 European Championships, but club commitments at Everton took precedence thereafter.

Coaching career

Everton academy roles

Following his retirement from professional football in August 2021, Baxter returned to Everton as an academy assistant coach, leveraging his experience as a former academy product and the club's youngest-ever debutant. In this initial role starting in September 2021, he primarily worked with the under-23s group at , providing guidance to young players transitioning toward senior team opportunities under then-manager Rafa Benítez. Described as a highly rated full-time coach, Baxter emphasized tactical awareness and personal development, drawing on his own journey from youth prospect to first-team exposure to mentor emerging talents. Over the subsequent years, Baxter's responsibilities within the expanded, reflecting his progression in the structure. By 2023, he had taken on more specialized duties across age groups, including support for under-18 sessions, before being appointed of the under-16s team. In this position, he focused on fostering technical skills, positional play, and resilience in younger players, contributing to the 's emphasis on holistic development amid the club's Category 1 status. His tenure saw the under-16s compete in national youth competitions, with Baxter praised for instilling a professional mindset in his squad during a period of transition under financial constraints. As of August 2025, Baxter serves as lead coach for the Under-15s, continuing to bridge the gap between Everton's youth and senior setups while balancing his international commitments.

Malaysia national team

In May 2025, Jose Baxter was appointed as assistant coach for the under head coach , while maintaining a joint role with his ongoing position at Everton Football Club. This arrangement allowed Baxter to split his time between the academy at and international duties in , marking a significant transition in his coaching career from domestic youth development to the international stage. The appointment was announced ahead of a national training camp, with Baxter joining the staff to support the senior team. Baxter's responsibilities centered on fostering the growth of Malaysian talents, leveraging his extensive experience from the Everton academy to emphasize tactical discipline, technical proficiency, and seamless integration of young players into higher-level competition. He focused on bridging the gap between youth and senior setups, drawing parallels to his work nurturing prospects at Everton by prioritizing long-term player pathways and elite training environments. This approach aimed to build a sustainable foundation for Malaysia's football future, particularly in preparation for regional tournaments. Baxter's first matches with the team came during a busy late spring schedule, including friendlies against on 29 May in and 3 June at , followed by a crucial qualifier versus on 10 June at the National Stadium. These fixtures provided an early platform to implement strategies centered on defensive solidity and youth infusion, with Baxter contributing to session planning that highlighted quick transitions and possession-based play adapted to international demands. By late 2025, his role had evolved to include ongoing preparations for , such as the fixture against on 18 November, solidifying his impact on Malaysia's competitive calendar.

Personal life

Background and family

Jose Baxter was born and raised in , , a working-class area known for its strong football culture. Despite beginning his professional career with local rivals Everton at a young age, Baxter has remained a lifelong supporter of , often expressing his boyhood allegiance to the Reds. Baxter hails from a close-knit family that provided strong support during his early football development. His father, Andy Baxter, a former gifted amateur player who worked as a taxi driver, attended nearly every one of his son's matches and played a key role in nurturing his talent from a young age. Following his retirement from professional football in 2021, Baxter has engaged in community activities in , reflecting his ties to the region. He volunteered with Everton's community charity program, assisting in support sessions to give back to the local area. In August 2025, he participated as a former Everton player in a charity match at , organized to support victims' families from the Southport stabbings, alongside other football figures.

Off-field issues

In October 2009, at the age of 17, Baxter was arrested in , , on suspicion of possessing with intent to supply and following a police stop of a vehicle he was traveling in. He was released on and subsequently no charges were filed against him. Baxter encountered significant challenges with drug use during his time at Sheffield United, where he failed an out-of-competition drugs test in May 2015, testing positive for traces of ecstasy (); the imposed a five-month suspension in July 2015, with three months of that period suspended after Baxter claimed his drink had been spiked. Less than a year later, in early 2016, he failed a second test, this time positive for , resulting in a 12-month ban imposed in August 2016 and a £4,000 fine, which contributed to his release from the club in May 2016. Following his return to professional football, Baxter has publicly discussed his struggles with to drugs and , and depression, attributing them to the pressures of early fame, , and poor coping mechanisms that led him to "rock bottom," including suicidal thoughts during his bans. In a while at Oldham Athletic, he described using drugs to numb emotional pain after the incidents became public, but credited support from family, Everton chairman , and rehabilitation efforts—including exercise and therapy—for his recovery and renewed passion for the game. Post-retirement in August 2021, Baxter elaborated in interviews on lying about the initial out of fear, the broader impact of his on his career trajectory, and his commitment to while transitioning to coaching, emphasizing lessons learned to mentor young players.

Career statistics and honours

Club and international statistics

Baxter's club career spanned several English leagues and a brief stint in the United States, where he primarily played as an attacking . His senior appearances were limited at Everton but increased at lower-tier clubs, contributing significantly in League One with Sheffield United and Oldham Athletic. Comprehensive are detailed below, aggregated by club for clarity, with totals reflecting all competitions.
ClubYearsAppearancesGoalsAssists
Everton2008–20121500
Tranmere Rovers (loan)2011–20121533
Oldham Athletic2012–2014, 2018–2019842110
Sheffield United2013–20161212811
Plymouth Argyle (loan)2019–20201210
2020812
Career Total2008–20202555426
Baxter represented England at youth international levels, earning caps across U16, U17, and U19 teams without progressing to senior internationals. His youth statistics are as follows, focusing on appearances and goals in competitive and friendly matches.
Youth TeamCapsGoals
England U1683
England U1793
England U1951

Playing Career Honours

Jose Baxter earned individual recognition during his time with Oldham Athletic in the 2012–13 season, where he was the club's top scorer with 15 goals across all competitions. At the end-of-season awards dinner on 30 April 2013, he won three accolades: Players' Player of the Season, voted by his teammates; Boundary Blues Player of the Season, selected by supporters; and Best Goal of the Season for his curling shot against Leyton Orient. Baxter was nominated for the Sky Bet League One Player of the Month award in December 2013 while at Sheffield United, after scoring three goals in four appearances, but did not win the honour. No major team honours, such as league titles, promotions, or cup victories, were achieved by the clubs Baxter played for during his professional career.

Coaching Career Honours

As of November 2025, Jose Baxter has not received any formal honours or awards in his coaching roles, including his positions within Everton's academy from 2021 to 2025 and his subsequent appointment as assistant coach for the national team.

References

  1. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/2867430/2021/10/05/jose-baxter-the-unravelling-of-a-wonderkid-i-gambled-with-everything-in-life/
  2. https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/everton-coach-combine-roles-after-31809539
  3. https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jose-baxter-9a869983
  4. https://www.evertonfc.com/news/2025/june/07/under-16s-coach-baxter-begins-new-joint-role-with-malaysian-national-team/
  5. https://www.transfermarkt.us/jose-baxter/profil/spieler/82734
  6. https://www.toffeeweb.com/players/profiles/Baxter.php
  7. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_prem/7551166.stm
  8. https://www.transfermarkt.us/jose-baxter/leistungsdaten/spieler/82734
  9. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-4162338/Everton-offer-12-month-contract-Jose-Baxter.html
  10. http://www.sporting-heroes.net/football/sheffield-united/jose-baxter-12959/league-appearances_a32641/
  11. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11671/7195871/rovers-get-evertons-baxter
  12. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/19602191
  13. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/20999419
  14. https://www.oldhamathletic.co.uk/news/2018/may/30052018-jose-baxter-agreed-deal/
  15. https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2020/3/31/21195271/obscure-former-everton-player-series-jose-baxter-david-moyes
  16. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/23897764
  17. https://www.sufc.co.uk/news/2013/august/baxter-signs/
  18. https://fbref.com/en/squads/1df6b87e/2014-2015/Sheffield-United-Stats
  19. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/may/16/sheffield-united-suspend-jose-baxter-drugs-test
  20. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37456140/sheffield-united-suspend-striker-jose-baxter
  21. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/47394200
  22. https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/former-everton-midfielder-jose-baxter-9702254
  23. https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2017/1/27/14412258/everton-offer-jose-baxter-12-month-contract-sheffield-oldham-cocaine-drugs-ban
  24. https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jose-baxter-taken-face-value-13500183
  25. https://royalbluemersey.sbnation.com/2018/10/30/18042422/jose-baxter-lifts-lid-on-everton-career-david-unsworth-oldham-athletic-checkatrade-trophy
  26. https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jose-baxter-reveals-how-much-15198754
  27. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/11390184/jose-baxter-rejoins-oldham-on-one-year-contract
  28. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/44309146
  29. https://www.toffeeweb.com/season/17-18/news/36732.html
  30. https://fbref.com/en/players/185990eb/Jose-Baxter
  31. https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/jose-baxter-oldham-athletic-everton-14726109
  32. https://www.oldhamathletic.co.uk/news/2019/may/08052019-1819-retained/
  33. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/49114797
  34. https://www.pafc.co.uk/news/2019/july/the-baxter-journey
  35. https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jose-baxter-plymouth-argyle-fitness-3144330
  36. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/50427454
  37. https://www.pafc.co.uk/news/2019/november/baxter-departs
  38. https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/sports/soccerblog/2020/02/19/memphis-901-fc-signs-jose-baxter-everton/4794557002/
  39. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/1669512/2020/03/12/everton-jose-baxter-memphis-901/
  40. https://www.fotmob.com/players/148790/jose-baxter
  41. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/58147596
  42. https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/nostalgia/you-lived-it-son-jose-baxters-emotional-post-after-retiring-at-age-of-29-3339041
  43. https://www.worldfootball.net/team_performance/england-u16-h-team/u16-h-freundschaft-2008/
  44. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/2844414/shelvey-shines-for-england
  45. https://www.toffeeweb.com/season/07-08/under18.php
  46. https://arsenalyouth.wordpress.com/2008/03/19/international-watch-freeman-on-target-for-england-under-16s/
  47. https://www.uefa.com/under17/news/0252-0cddd1f17320-f24c572b2958-1000--spain-and-england-confirm-their-status/
  48. http://www.englandfootballonline.com/matchrsl/MatchRslYouthTime2000.html
  49. https://www.uefa.com/under17/news/0252-0cddd0de633a-8830c3e2fc95-1000--garbutt-hits-back-as-england-hold-dutch/
  50. https://www.uefa.com/MultimediaFiles/Download/Publications/uefa/UEFAMedia/91/09/58/910958_DOWNLOAD.pdf
  51. http://www.englandfootballonline.com/matchrsl/MatchRslTmU17.html
  52. https://thetoffees.online/everton-news/jose-baxter-leaves-everton-u16-coach-role-for-international-job/818/
  53. https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/jose-baxter-everton-rafa-benitez-21981904
  54. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c20vpl3r443o
  55. https://www.cheshire-live.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/liverpool-fc-oldhams-jose-baxter-5115458
  56. https://www.thisisanfield.com/2025/07/liverpool-legends-and-celebrities-unite-for-southport-victims-charity-match/
  57. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2009/oct/06/everton-jose-baxter-cannabis-police
  58. https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37417185/jose-baxter-aaron-mccarey-suspended-failed-drug-tests
  59. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/10532246/jose-baxter-banned-for-12-months-after-second-drug-test-failure
  60. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/35611555
  61. https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/everton-baxter-lied-drugs-test-25138859
  62. https://www.transfermarkt.com/jose-baxter/leistungsdatendetails/spieler/82734
  63. https://www.transfermarkt.com/jose-baxter/nationalmannschaft/spieler/82734
  64. https://www.oldham-chronicle.co.uk/news-features/10/oldham-athletic-news/79986/baxter-scoops-latics-awards
  65. https://www.sufc.co.uk/news/2014/january/jose-nominated/
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