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Robbie James
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Robbie James
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Robert Mark James (23 March 1957[3] – 18 February 1998) was a Welsh international footballer who played for many teams including Swansea City, Stoke City and Queens Park Rangers.[3] He represented his country on 47 occasions over a period of ten years, scoring a total of seven goals.[3]

Key Information

He was a talented utility player who contributed greatly to Swansea City's rise from the Fourth Division to the First Division between 1978 and 1981, and helped them finish sixth in their first top division campaign. He played a total of 783 English league games between 1973 and 1994, scoring 134 goals. His league appearance tally is one of the highest of any player in the history of English football.[4]

Career

[edit]

James was born in Gorseinon and began his career with local side Swansea City. He made his debut at the end of the 1972–73 season which ended with Swansea being relegated to the Fourth Division. They slowly recovered and James' 16 goals in 1976–77 and 17 in 1977–78 helping the Swans gain promotion back to the Football League Third Division. He then scored a career best of 21 in 1978–79 as Swansea gained back to back promotions. After two seasons in the Second Division they completed a remarkable rise gaining promotion to the First Division for the first time in the club's history. James took to the top flight well scoring 14 goals in 46 appearances as Swansea finished in sixth position. However the following season saw Swansea relegated back to the Second Division and James joined Stoke City.[1]

He played in 46 matches for Stoke in 1983–84 scoring seven goals but with the team struggling in 1984–85 he was sold to Queens Park Rangers £100,000.[1] He spent three seasons at Loftus Road, helping the Hoops preserve their First Division status and reach the 1986 Football League Cup Final, where they were beaten 3–0 by Oxford United. At the end of the 1986–87 season, he joined Leicester City who had just been relegated to the Second Division.[5]

After a season with Leicester he moved back to Swansea City, and later played for Bradford City and Cardiff City. With Cardiff, he helped them to win the Third Division in 1992–93, his last season in the English Football League after 20 years. After his time with Cardiff he moved into Non-League football with Merthyr Tydfil.[3] He became player-manager of Llaneli in 1996, but collapsed and died while playing for them against Porthcawl on 18 February 1998. He was 40 years old.[6]

Legacy

[edit]

In 2007, a bust of James was unveiled outside Swansea's Liberty Stadium. The bust, located next to the stadium's ticket office, was made possible by fans raising nearly £7,000 in memory of the midfielder, who played almost 400 games for the club.[7]

On 22 September 2012, the first 20 names were inducted into the 'Robbie James Wall of Fame', a hall of fame commemorating notable former Swansea players and managers. The Wall of Fame, located beneath the bust of James at the Liberty Stadium, will eventually consist of a total of 100 plaques, unveiled over a period of 5 years.[8]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]

Source:[9]

Club Season League FA Cup League Cup Other[A] Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Swansea City 1972–73 Third Division 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
1973–74 Fourth Division 28 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 29 2
1974–75 Fourth Division 42 8 2 0 0 0 0 0 44 8
1975–76 Fourth Division 45 8 1 0 1 0 0 0 47 8
1976–77 Fourth Division 46 16 1 0 6 2 0 0 53 16
1977–78 Fourth Division 42 16 5 1 2 0 0 0 49 17
1978–79 Third Division 43 15 4 2 5 4 0 0 52 21
1979–80 Second Division 29 6 5 2 2 0 0 0 36 8
1980–81 Second Division 35 8 1 0 2 0 0 0 38 8
1981–82 First Division 42 14 1 0 1 0 2 0 46 14
1982–83 First Division 40 9 1 0 4 0 5 0 50 9
Total 393 102 21 5 24 6 7 0 445 113
Stoke City 1983–84 First Division 40 6 1 0 5 1 0 0 46 7
1984–85 First Division 8 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 10 0
Total 48 6 1 0 7 1 0 0 56 7
Queens Park Rangers 1984–85 First Division 20 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 20 2
1985–86 First Division 28 1 1 0 6 0 0 0 35 1
1986–87 First Division 39 2 4 1 3 0 0 0 46 3
Total 87 5 5 1 9 0 0 0 101 6
Leicester City 1987–88 Second Division 23 0 0 0 4 0 1 0 28 0
Total 23 0 0 0 4 0 1 0 28 0
Swansea City 1987–88 Fourth Division 19 3 1 0 0 0 4 0 24 3
1988–89 Third Division 41 9 3 0 2 0 2 0 48 9
1989–90 Third Division 30 4 1 0 2 0 3 1 36 5
Total 90 16 5 0 4 0 9 1 108 17
Bradford City 1990–91 Third Division 46 3 2 0 5 1 4 1 57 5
1991–92 Third Division 43 3 2 0 4 0 2 0 51 3
Total 89 6 4 0 9 1 6 1 108 8
Cardiff City 1992–93 Third Division 42 2 1 0 2 0 4 0 49 2
1993–94 Second Division 9 0 0 0 2 0 2 1 13 1
Total 51 2 1 0 4 0 6 1 62 3
Merthyr Tydfil 1993–94 Football Conference 15 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 15 2
1994–95 Football Conference 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Total 16 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 16 2
Barry Town 1994–95 League of Wales 32 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 32 1
Llanelli 1995–96 League of Wales 35 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 35 1
Career Total 864 141 37 6 61 8 29 3 991 158
A. ^ The "Other" column constitutes appearances and goals in the Full Members Cup, Football League play-offs, Football League Trophy and UEFA Cup Winners' Cup.

International

[edit]

Source:[10]

National team Year Apps Goals
Wales 1978 1 0
1979 6 1
1981 2 1
1982 7 2
1983 5 2
1984 8 1
1985 5 0
1986 6 0
1987 5 0
1988 1 0
Total 46 7

Honours

[edit]
The Robbie James Wall of Fame, April 2014

Swansea City

Queens Park Rangers

Cardiff City

See also

[edit]

References

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

Robbie James

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Robert Mark James (23 March 1957 – 18 February 1998), commonly known as Robbie James, was a Welsh professional footballer who played primarily as a versatile midfielder, renowned for his contributions to Swansea City's historic rise through the divisions in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Born in , , James began his career with his hometown club Swansea City, debuting at age 16 in 1973 and quickly becoming a key figure in their promotions from the Fourth Division to the First Division between 1978 and 1981. Over his career, he amassed 782 league appearances and 133 goals across multiple clubs, earning 47 caps for the national team between 1978 and 1988, during which he scored seven international goals. James' most notable achievements came during his two spells at Swansea City (1973–1983 and 1988–1990), where he made 484 league appearances—the third-highest total in club history—and scored 115 goals, placing him second on the all-time scorers list. He was instrumental in the team's back-to-back promotions in 1977–78 and 1978–79, scoring 16 and 14 goals respectively in those campaigns, and helped secure promotion to the top flight in 1981, followed by a sixth-place finish in the 1981–82 season where he was the club's top scorer with 14 goals. Known for his powerful shooting, vision, and tireless work rate, James was the youngest player to reach 100 and 200 league appearances for Swansea and played in 82 of the club's 84 First Division matches. After leaving Swansea in 1983, he played for Stoke City, Queens Park Rangers, Leicester City, Bradford City, and Cardiff City, winning five medals in total, before returning to as player-manager of . On the international stage, James debuted for in October 1978 in a 7–0 qualifying win over and went on to represent his country in competitive eras, including qualifiers where he scored in a memorable 4–4 draw against . His career was tragically cut short at age 40 when he collapsed and died of a heart attack during a match for against Town on 18 February 1998. James remains a revered figure in Welsh football, embodying the passion and success of Swansea's golden era under managers and .

Early life

Birth and upbringing

Robert Mark James was born on 23 March 1957 in , , , a community near the Loughor estuary approximately six miles northwest of . emerged as an industrial settlement in the late , primarily driven by and related activities, with collieries such as Brynlliw operating in the vicinity into the mid-20th century. The town's socio-economic landscape during the 1950s and 1960s reflected the broader challenges of ' industrial heartland, where working-class families were deeply connected to mining and manufacturing, even as the coal sector faced gradual decline amid economic shifts. James grew up in this environment, with family members showing strong support for local sports; his uncle Ron James, a lifelong Swansea City season ticket holder, recalled watching him develop his skills from schoolboy level onward. His initial exposure to football occurred through activities and informal play with local amateur teams in the Valley area, fostering a passion that naturally progressed to structured youth development at nearby .

Youth development

James's early exposure to organized football came through schoolboy teams in his hometown of , where he displayed considerable talent during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Growing up in the area, he balanced football with work at a local electrical firm before committing fully to the sport. His performances at the youth level drew interest from prominent clubs, including Cardiff City and . In March 1973, at the age of 16, James signed as an amateur with his local professional club, Swansea City, marking his entry into a structured youth development program. Under manager , a former Manchester United goalkeeper, James rapidly advanced through the club's youth ranks, establishing himself as a versatile attacking midfielder with strong vision and goal-scoring ability from midfield. His quick progression highlighted his status as one of the club's most promising young prospects, setting the foundation for a distinguished professional career.

Club career

Swansea City (1973–1983)

Robbie James made his professional debut for Swansea City at the age of 16 in the final league match of the 1972–73 season, a 2–1 Division Three defeat to on 7 April 1973. Born and raised in nearby , James quickly established himself as a versatile known for his pace, powerful shooting, and consistency, becoming a cornerstone of the team during its formative years. He holds the club records as the youngest player to reach 100 league appearances (achieved before his 19th birthday on 11 February 1976 against ), 200 league games (by age 20), and 300 league games (by age 22). Under manager , who took charge in February 1978 amid the club's financial struggles and position near the bottom of the Fourth Division, James played a pivotal role in Swansea's remarkable ascent through the English football leagues. The team secured promotion from the Fourth Division in 1977–78, finishing second, with James contributing 16 goals in 42 league appearances; the following season, 1978–79, saw another promotion from the Third Division as champions, during which James scored 14 league goals. His influence continued in the 1980–81 Second Division campaign, where Swansea clinched promotion to the First Division for the first time in their history with a 3–1 victory at Preston North End on 2 May 1981, a match James started and helped drive from central midfield alongside local teammates. Over his first stint at the club from 1973 to 1983, James amassed 374 league appearances and 56 goals, forming a dynamic partnership with fellow Swansea native , whose interplay in attack and midfield propelled the side's success. James's loyalty to his hometown club, where he remained despite interest from larger teams, cemented his status as a local and of Swansea's transformation from near-bankruptcy in the mid-1970s—when the club faced potential —to top-flight contenders by 1982. Fans adored his tireless work rate and memorable strikes, such as the winning goal in the 1982 Welsh Cup final against rivals City, which showcased his ability to deliver in high-stakes derbies. This era not only elevated Swansea socio-culturally, instilling pride in a working-class community through unprecedented achievements, but also highlighted James's embodiment of the club's resilient spirit under Toshack's leadership.

Stoke City and Queens Park Rangers (1983–1985)

Following Swansea City's relegation from the First Division at the end of the 1982–83 season, Robbie James sought a fresh challenge by joining Stoke City for a £160,000 transfer fee in the summer of 1983. As a versatile utility capable of playing in central or wide roles, James adapted to the demands of top-flight football at the , contributing to a gritty survival campaign. He made 48 appearances across all competitions during the 1983–84 season, scoring six goals, including key contributions in Stoke's tense relegation battle that culminated in a 20th-place finish and safety on the final day of the season. However, Stoke's form deteriorated sharply in the early stages of the 1984–85 campaign amid ongoing financial difficulties and managerial instability under Bill Asprey, with the club winning just one of their first 13 league matches. James featured in nine league games before his sale in October 1984, as the Potters offloaded assets to alleviate mounting pressures that ultimately led to a record-low 17 points and relegation. His departure highlighted the challenges of maintaining consistency in a squad plagued by sales and poor results, though James himself remained a reliable presence despite the turmoil. James then moved to Queens Park Rangers for £100,000 later that month, reuniting with top-flight football at under manager . In a more stable environment, he slotted into a midfield that emphasized attacking transitions, making 20 league appearances and scoring two goals during the 1984–85 season to help QPR secure a solid ninth-place finish.

Leicester City and Swansea City (1987–1990)

James remained at Queens Park Rangers until 1987, where he made 87 league appearances and scored 5 goals over three seasons, contributing to consistent mid-table finishes in the First Division through his versatility in midfield and support for the team's attacking play. In 1987, James joined Leicester City in the Second Division, where he adapted to a right-back role and made 23 league appearances during the 1987–88 season, providing defensive stability and experience to a side that finished mid-table under manager . His tenure at Leicester was brief but marked by reliable performances amid the club's efforts to rebuild. In 1988, James returned for a second spell at City, where he was appointed captain and played until 1990, adding 110 league appearances and 59 goals to his tally and helping the club in their battle against relegation from the Second Division. During this period, he pocketed another winner's medal in 1989 with a 2–0 victory over in the final, delivering committed performances in the intense derbies and embodying leadership in a challenging time for the club marked by financial pressures and inconsistent results. His experience aided the team's resilience, though remained in the lower reaches of the division without achieving promotion.

Later clubs (1990–1996)

In 1990, James transferred to Bradford City, where he featured prominently over two seasons in the Third Division, making 89 appearances and scoring 6 goals, often deployed as a right back from which he delivered crosses for the forwards. During the 1990–91 campaign, he appeared in approximately 40 league games as the team mounted a promotion push, finishing eighth in the table. His experience contributed to the squad's stability in a competitive lower-tier environment. Following his time at , James joined City in 1992, adding 51 league appearances and 2 goals during the 1992–93 season in the third tier, helping the Bluebirds secure promotion as champions. This spell marked a move to Welsh football , where he provided midfield grit and leadership at Ninian Park amid passionate derbies. In 1993, at age 36, James joined as player-manager in the Welsh football system, where he continued to play while overseeing the team and developing younger talent through coaching duties. He remained with the club until 1994, balancing on-field contributions with off-field guidance that emphasized veteran insight for emerging players. By the end of his professional tenure, James had amassed 782 English league appearances, a figure underscoring his remarkable longevity and ability to sustain high-level fitness into his late 30s. James's decisions in this phase reflected a strategic wind-down, prioritizing proximity to his roots and less demanding roles that allowed sustained involvement in the sport amid family considerations.

International career

Youth and under-21 levels

James was selected for the under-18 national team in the mid-1970s, making appearances in the 1975 European Under-18 qualifiers and finals tournament. In the qualifiers, he featured in the home 4–0 victory over at Stadium on 5 February 1975 and the 1–0 away defeat in Gzira on 19 March 1975. At the finals in , James played in all three group matches: a 0–0 draw against on 9 May in , a 4–0 loss to on 11 May in , and a 3–0 win over on 13 May in , helping secure third place in Group B. These outings showcased his emerging midfield presence alongside future professionals like and Carl Harris. Transitioning to the under-21 level, James made his debut for the U21 team on 15 December 1976 in a 0–0 British Championship draw away to at the in . He followed this with a start in the 3–2 defeat to on 9 February 1977 at , , during the same competition. In total, James earned two caps for the U21 side across the 1976–77 season. His tenacious midfield play in these matches, often involving robust challenges and forward surges, drew notice from selectors and complemented his ongoing development at Swansea City. Born and raised in near , James's local roots smoothed his integration into 's national youth setups, aligning seamlessly with his club pathway. Standout performances, such as his composed displays in the U18 finals, accelerated his progression toward higher representative honors.

Senior appearances

Robbie James made his senior international debut for on 25 October 1978, starting in a 7–0 qualifying victory over at the in . His under-21 experience had paved the way for this seamless integration into the senior setup. Over the next decade, he accumulated 46 additional caps, totaling 47 appearances until his final match in 1988, during which he scored 7 goals as a tenacious holding . James's international career spanned from to 1988. His debut year included another World Cup qualifier against in May 1979, where suffered a 0–2 defeat. He netted his first international goal on 26 May 1979 in a 1–1 friendly draw against , leveling the score with a penalty. Subsequent goals came in key fixtures, including a 1–1 away draw with in March 1982 and a 5–0 friendly win over in October 1983. A pivotal period for James was the 1982 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, where he featured in 8 matches as topped their group ahead of Czechoslovakia, , and before losing a playoff to Hungary. Notable contributions included scoring in a 2–2 draw against in October 1981 and participating in the famous 0–0 friendly draw with at in May 1981, which boosted morale during the qualifiers. He often partnered with captain in midfield, providing defensive solidity and distribution to support attackers like and Alan Curtis. James also played a role in the efforts, appearing in 8 games in Group 7 alongside , , , and , though Wales finished second and missed out on . His versatility in the holding role was evident in draws like the 1–1 against in 1983. By the mid-1980s, appearances tapered as he balanced demanding club schedules at City and later teams, alongside fluctuating form, leading to his international retirement after a substitute outing in a 1–2 friendly defeat to on 23 March 1988 at the in .

Managerial career

Player-manager roles

In 1993, aged 36, James was appointed player-manager at non-league following his departure from Cardiff City. His tenure there was short-lived, after which he moved to Barry Town before joining Llanelli AFC in 1996 as player-manager, a club in the . In these roles, James balanced playing duties with managerial responsibilities such as squad selection and match preparation. James was remembered as a great friend and player-manager in Welsh , with a commemorative plaque at in his honor.

Personal life and death

Family and personal interests

James was twice married and had three children: one son and two daughters. Born in near , his roots fostered a profound passion for Welsh identity, which extended to his personal life as he consistently chose to play and for local clubs, allowing him to balance professional commitments with family stability in the region. James remained deeply involved in his community, supporting City through his enduring association with the club and contributing to Welsh football development via roles. Post-retirement from higher divisions, he pursued aspirations in as player-manager at AFC, emphasizing grassroots talent in . In his 30s, James demonstrated dedication to fitness by continuing competitive play into non-league football, reflecting a lifestyle committed to physical conditioning despite career transitions. Off the pitch, he was known for his approachable nature and strong bonds with former teammates, including Alan Curtis and , who roomed with him during travels and later recounted his passionate, team-oriented persona in tributes.

Circumstances of death

On 18 February 1998, Robbie James, aged 40 and serving as player-manager for , collapsed during a Welsh League against Town at Stebonheath Park. was leading 2-1 when James executed a half-tackle, advancing the ball a few yards before suddenly falling to the ground without any collision or apparent contact from an opponent. The game was immediately abandoned as teammates, including substitute Tony Smolka, and officials rushed to assist James; Smolka later recalled the moment, stating, "You think the worst at these moments." Emergency services attended the scene and attempted resuscitation, but James was pronounced dead on the pitch from a heart attack. James's family was notified shortly after the incident, and the club expressed profound shock and devastation, with tributes including a minute's silence at subsequent matches and attendance at his funeral by officials and former teammates.

Legacy

Impact on Swansea City and Welsh football

Robbie James played a pivotal role in City's remarkable ascent from the Fourth Division to the First Division between 1978 and 1981, contributing to three promotions in four years under manager , which transformed the club from near-obscurity to top-flight contenders. As a homegrown talent from nearby , James embodied the "Swans' miracle," a period of unprecedented success that captured national attention and revitalized the club's identity in Welsh football. His consistent performances in midfield, including scoring crucial goals during promotion campaigns, helped foster a winning mentality that inspired a generation of young players in to pursue professional careers. James's statistical legacy underscores his enduring impact on Swansea, where he amassed 593 appearances (the fourth-highest total in club history) and 149 goals, ranking second all-time behind only Allchurch. Across his career, he played 783 English league games, a figure that places him among the most prolific appearance-makers in the history of the , highlighting his reliability and longevity as a professional. These records not only reflect his personal dedication but also symbolize the stability he provided during Swansea's golden era, serving as benchmarks for club loyalty in Welsh football. As a product of Swansea's , James bridged club and country, earning 47 caps for between 1978 and 1988, which elevated his status as a national icon during a resurgent period for the team. His success exemplified the potential of homegrown Welsh talent, influencing the football identity in by demonstrating how lower-division clubs could produce players capable of competing at the highest levels. This connection inspired future generations, as evidenced by his posthumous induction into the Robbie James Wall of Fame at the Liberty Stadium (now ), which honors figures who shaped the club's cultural significance. Known for his tenacious midfield play—characterized by relentless tackling, strong positional awareness, and unyielding passion—James's style became a model for midfielders in lower-tier Welsh teams, promoting a gritty, resilient approach that emphasized endurance over flair in resource-limited environments. This tactical influence persisted in regional football, where his of the hardworking, versatile player encouraged coaches to prioritize physicality and team ethic in developing young prospects.

Tributes and commemorations

Following his sudden collapse and death on the pitch during a match for against Town on 18 February 1998, Robbie James' passing at age 40 elicited widespread grief throughout Welsh football, with tributes emphasizing his lifelong dedication to the sport. Several memorials were established in James' honor at key sites associated with his career. A bronze bust of him was unveiled outside City's Liberty in 2008, funded by fans and positioned near the ticket office to commemorate his contributions to the club. The stadium's Robbie James Wall of Fame, dedicated to club legends, was also named in his honor and first unveiled in 2012 before a match against Everton, later expanded to include over 100 inductees such as Ivor Allchurch and . In July 2025, the Swans Trust announced plans to relocate the Wall of Fame as part of stadium enhancements. At , where James served as player-manager at the time of his death, a commemorative plaque was installed at Stebonheath Park, and the club has held annual remembrances, including a minute's applause before matches on the anniversary of his passing. In 2014, author Gary Wharton published the biography Robbie James: A Life in Football, which chronicles his career across clubs like City and Cardiff City, his 47 caps, and his final moments on the field, drawing on firsthand interviews with contemporaries including former teammate Tony Smolka. The underscores James' enduring status as a beloved figure in Welsh sport. Fan-led tributes continue through media and club initiatives, such as City's 2021 documentary History Makers: Robbie James, featuring reflections from former teammates including , Alan Curtis, Wyndham Evans, Jeremy Charles, and Nigel Stevenson on his role in the club's 1980s successes.

Career statistics

Club statistics

Robbie James amassed 782 appearances and 134 goals in English league matches throughout his professional career, spanning from 1973 to 1994. His domestic club record reflects a versatile midfielder who contributed significantly to multiple teams across various divisions, including three promotions with Swansea City from the Fourth Division to the First Division between 1978 and 1981. Below is a summary of his league appearances and goals by club, drawn from detailed match records.
ClubYears ActiveLeague AppearancesLeague Goals
Swansea City1973–1983, 1988–1990484115
Stoke City1983–1985486
Queens Park Rangers1984–1987875
Leicester City1987–1988230
Bradford City1990–1992896
Cardiff City1992–1994512
Career Total782134
James's most prolific period came during his first stint at Swansea City, where he featured in every league match during the promotion-winning 1977–78 and 1980–81 seasons, scoring 16 and 8 goals respectively as the club rose from the Fourth and Second Divisions. In total for Swansea across both spells, he recorded 593 appearances and 149 goals in all domestic competitions, including cups. At Queens Park Rangers, he played a key role in the 1986–87 season with 39 appearances amid the club's push for European qualification. Disciplinary records show minimal issues, with no major suspensions noted across his career, though he occasionally served as an unused substitute in later years at Bradford City and Cardiff City.

International statistics

James earned 47 caps for at senior level between 1978 and 1988, during which he scored 7 goals. He made his debut on 25 1978, starting in a 7–0 qualifying victory over at the in . His international career concluded on 23 March 1988 with a substitute appearance in a 1–2 friendly defeat to at the in . Of his 47 appearances, 45 were as a starter and 2 as a substitute, primarily in midfield. James's caps were concentrated in qualification campaigns for major tournaments, including the 1982 and 1986 (where Wales narrowly missed qualification in both) and the 1980, 1984, and 1988 , alongside friendlies and matches. He featured in over 20 World Cup qualifier games and around 15 European Championship qualifiers, contributing to 's competitive showings during a golden era for the national team. All 7 of his goals came in these fixtures, with 4 in European Championship qualifiers, 1 in a World Cup qualifier, and 2 in friendlies. His scoring highlighted his role as a creative , often delivering from set pieces or open play. The following table lists James's international goals for Wales:
DateOpponentResultCompetitionGoal Details
26 May 19791–1FriendlyEqualizer in the second half
9 September 19812–21982 World Cup qualifier25th minute
24 March 19821–1FriendlyLate equalizer
15 December 19824–4 qualifier80th minute
12 October 19835–0Friendly72nd minute
14 December 19831–1 qualifier54th minute
28 February 19841–247th minute

Honours

Club honours

During his time at Swansea City, Robbie James contributed to the club's remarkable rise through the English football leagues under manager . In the 1977–78 season, Swansea finished third in the with 59 points from 46 matches, securing promotion to the Third Division. The following year, 1978–79, they achieved another promotion by placing third in the Third Division with 60 points, advancing to the Second Division. This momentum continued in 1980–81, when Swansea ended third in the Second Division with 50 points from 42 matches, finishing third to earn promotion to the First Division and marking the club's first-ever entry into the top flight. James was also part of Swansea's success in the , winning the competition in 1981 (defeating Hereford United 2–1 on aggregate in the final), 1982 (2–1 on aggregate over Cardiff City), and 1983 (2–1 on aggregate over ). These victories represented Swansea's sixth, seventh, and eighth triumphs, respectively, and highlighted the team's dominance in Welsh domestic football during that period. Later in his career, during his spell at Cardiff City (1992–93), James contributed to their Third Division championship win, securing promotion to the Second Division.

Individual achievements

Robbie James holds the distinction of being the youngest player to reach 100 and 200 league appearances for Swansea City, milestones he achieved during his early career with the club. He further extended this record by becoming the youngest to attain 300 league appearances, underscoring his rapid rise and consistent presence in the team from his debut at age 16 in 1973. Throughout his professional career spanning from 1973 to 1994, James amassed one of the highest totals of league appearances in English football history, reflecting his remarkable longevity and dedication across multiple clubs including Swansea City, Stoke City, Queens Park Rangers, Leicester City, Bradford City, and Cardiff City. Following his in 1998, James was posthumously honored with induction into the Swansea City Wall of Fame, a established in his name at the Liberty Stadium to recognize his contributions to the club; the wall features a bust of him and has been expanded over the years to include other club legends.

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  30. https://www.11v11.com/matches/wales-v-yugoslavia-23-march-1988-240998/
  31. https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/nonleague-football-james-the-novice-takes-on-merthyr-mission-1509431.html
  32. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/obituaries/obituary-robbie-james-1146080.html
  33. https://www.swanseacity.com/news/history-makers-1980-81-robbie-james
  34. https://www.swanseacity.com/news/former-players-share-their-stand-out-festive-games-swans-shirt
  35. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ka8Pz_6hhNM
  36. https://www.swanseacity.com/history/players-past
  37. https://www.swanstrust.co.uk/news/second-wall-of-fame-inductees-announced/
  38. https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/can-you-choose-greatest-ever-1844206
  39. https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/legend-robbies-bust-is-unveiled-2185757
  40. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-west-wales-19685651
  41. https://www.swanseacity.com/news/20-new-names-wall-fame
  42. https://www.swanstrust.co.uk/match-day-experience/matchday-experience-working-group-mewg-update-8-july-2025/
  43. https://herald.wales/national-news/sport/games-away-from-promotion/
  44. https://about.me/robbie_james
  45. https://www.footballdatabase.eu/en/match/overview/1042206-pays_de_galles-malte
  46. https://www.national-football-teams.com/matches/report/33555/Wales_Yugoslavia.html
  47. https://www.rsssf.org/tablesw/wal-intres80.html
  48. https://www.fchd.info/SWANSEAC.HTM
  49. https://www.swanseacity.com/history/robbie-james-wall-fame
  50. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-south-west-wales-19685651
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