James Tilley (footballer)


James Alexander David Tilley is an English professional footballer who plays as a forward or attacking midfielder for side Grimsby Town.

Club career

Brighton & Hove Albion

Tilley made his debut professional appearance for Brighton on 2 May 2015, coming on as a substitute in the 95th minute for Jake Forster-Caskey, in Brighton's last game of the 2014–15 season in which they drew 0–0 away to Middlesbrough. Tilley's second appearance for Brighton came in a 2–4 League Cup victory over Oxford United in the 2016–17 season, with Tilley coming on as a substitute for Elvis Manu in the 87th minute.
Tilley scored his first goal for Brighton in an EFL Cup tie against Barnet on 22 August 2017, where Brighton won 1–0 at Falmer Stadium.

Loan to Cork City

On 18 January 2019, it was confirmed that Tilley had joined League of Ireland club Cork City on a six-month loan. Tilley made his Cork City debut in the President's Cup on 9 February 2019 - Cork City lost 2–1 to Dundalk. On 15 February Tilley made his league debut for Cork City in a 1–0 away defeat against St Patrick's Athletic in the League of Ireland. Tilley scored his first goal for Cork on 1 April in a League Cup match against local side Cobh Ramblers. Opening the scoring in a 4–1 home victory to Cork. Tilley's loan spell ended with Cork sitting only just above the relegation zone.

Loan to Yeovil Town

On 2 September 2019, Tilley signed for National League side Yeovil Town on loan until the end of the season. He made his debut for The Glovers a day later, coming on as a substitute in the 1–0 home win over Sutton.

Grimsby Town

On 15 January 2020, Tilley's loan with Yeovil Town was cut short to sign permanently for League Two side Grimsby Town on an initial 18-month contract.

Personal life

James is part of a footballing family: his father is chairman of Sussex County League club Billingshurst and his eldest brother Nick has also played at County League level.

Career statistics