James Norwood

James Thomas Norwood (born 5 September 1990) is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Ipswich Town.

He started his career with Eastbourne Town, making eighteen senior appearances before signing for Exeter City in July 2009. Two years later, in June 2011, he joined Forest Green Rovers, who he left in May 2015 to join Tranmere Rovers and later Ipswich Town in 2019.

Norwood also represented England Schools in 2009, making his debut on 5 March against Wales in the Carnegie Centenary Shield. He scored his first goal against France on 13 June 2009.

Club Career

Early career

Born in Eastbourne, East Sussex, Norwood played for Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace youth teams. He later represented, Eastbourne Town youth, St Bede's School and England Schools as a youth player in the 2008–09 season. Later in that same season, he played for Eastbourne Town's senior side despite still being at school, making eighteen appearances for the Isthmian League Division One South club, scoring 10 goals.

In April 2009, he won the English Schools FA Trophy with St Bedes against Carre's Grammar School, Lincolnshire and was made infamous with the Carre's pupils as 'Pink Boots'. He made his debut for England Schools on 5 March, against Wales in the Carnegie Centenary Shield. In June 2009, Norwood represented England Schools again in their 4–2 defeat against France at Wembley Stadium.

Exeter City

John Yems handed Norwood a trial with Exeter City during their 2009–10 pre-season campaign along with nine other players. Following the successful trial, he signed for the club on 25 July 2009. His move was helped with funding from a branch of the Exeter City Supporters' Trust called the 1931 Fund, which was created with the intention of signing players. Members of the fund each pay £19 per month towards his wages. Norwood made his debut in Exeter City's 2–1 defeat away to Leeds United in League One on 8 August, the opening day