August 7, 1894
We regret to announce the death of Nick Ross, who for many years has played at full back for Preston North End and up to last season, when ill-health compelled him to take a holiday abroad. He had been ailing for some time, his lengthy indisposition terminating fatally at noon yesterday. The news will be received with deep regret.
Nicholas J. Ross was for several years the mainstay of the Preston North End Club, and probably did more than any other player to raise the Preston Club to the high position it occupied up to a year ago.
He was a fine back player, and five years ago was considered by the critics to be the finest back in the world. Ross was also well-known for his prowess in the cricket field. Sunderland people will not readily forget Ross’s exhibitions on the Newcastle Road Ground.
The late captain of the North End Club had but recently returned to England from the Canary Islands, where he had been spending some months recruiting his health. It will be remembered that while there he had gallantly saved the son of a prominent Liverpool citizen from drowning.
(Source: Sunderland Daily Echo: August 8, 1894)
Image of Nick Ross, found here.
"Play Up, Liverpool" 