Shallcross played for his native Leek before becoming a Football Leaguereferee in 1895.[1] He was appointed secretary-manager of Stoke in February 1919, in time for Stoke's first season back in the league since 1908.[1] A steady season of mid-table followed in 1919–20 but Shallcross then angered the supporters with the seemingly unnecessary sale of Charlie ParkertoSunderland, but he did bring in Bob McGrory who would have a long career at the Victoria Ground.[1]
After almost being relegated in 1920–21 Stoke finished 2nd in 1921–22 to gain a return to the First Division.[1] Key to Stoke's success was the early season signing of the Broad brothers Tommy and Jimmy with the later scoring 27 goals.[1] However any hope that it be the start of a sustained spell in the top-flight was quickly dashed as Stoke struggled all through the 1922–23 season and with relegation looming Shallcross was sacked in March 1923.[1]
