Alan Hinton v Leighton James. Who was the best?

[Oldtimeram]

I have got into a debate over on the Burnley Board about Leighton James in comparison to Alan Hinton. Whilst I think Leighton James was a very good player I think he suffered, by being compared to Alan Hinton and perhaps did not get the full recognition he deserved. One guy on their board stated that he considered James to be a better player than Hinton. I disagree, but i thought it worthwhile to get the view of others on this subject.

In my opinion James was a very quick, tricky winger who could beat his man, but could not deliver the final ball as well as Gladys. As most of you know Hinton was never very good at tackling or heading a ball but his main attribute was beating his man and putting in pin point crosses from either wing. A corner in those days was almost considered to be as good as a penalty because the amount of goal scored from corners was incredible because he could pick out his target players so well.

Whilst James was good and I would love to see a player like hi

[DCFC95]

Show them this. - view external link

[Oldtimeram]

I remember that game well. Hinton did the same virtually every game. Folk say Beckham was good at crossing and free kicks but I would take Hinton every time

[blackandwhite56]

No contest - Hinton, as he played for Clough's Derby, was just so consistent in the skill he showed and outcome in terms of goals.
Remembering James, one remembers his ability to dribble past several defenders but the outcome was often nil.
There has never been another player for Derby so good as Hinton for being able to place the ball accurately and delivering balls so hard to defend.

[Oldtimeram]

Exactly my thoughts too.

[Manofpride]

Nothing to compare, Hinton was head and shoulders better!

[rams01]

Gladys was the best crosser of the ball bi fore.

[Oldtimeram]

I assume "bi fore" means "I saw"?

[rams01]

No it should have been by far better than anyone.lol

[hooteroll]

No question. Hinton