August 25, 1925
Preston North End directors yesterday secured the transfer of Willie Russell, the international inside right of Airdrieonians. Representatives of the club, who were in Airdrie over the weekend, watched Russell play against Aberdeen.
They were so impressed by his display that they awaited the return of Mr. Willie Orr, the Airdrie manager, who was at Liverpool negotiating the transfer of Hector Lawson, outside left of Liverpool, who was recently transferred from Glasgow Rangers.
Yesterday Mr. Orr met the North End directors and after a lengthy consultation it was announced that Russell had signed for the English club. No sum is mentioned in the deal, but it is said that it is the biggest transfer paid for a player in recent times. Mr. Orr also announced that he had been successful during his visit south in securing the transfer of Lawson.
(Dundee Courier: August 26, 1925)
"Play Up, Liverpool" 