Fred Fenton played his early football for Gainsborough Trinity. In 1900 Arnold Hills decided to bring in some experienced players to his new West Ham side. The club made several new signings that year including Fenton, Hugh Monteith (Bristol City), Fergus Hunt (Arsenal), George Radcliffe (Grimsby Town), James Reid (Port Vale), Albert Kaye (Chatham) and Billy Grassam (Port Vale). Fenton played in the early games but lost his place and was transferred to Swindon Town at the end of the season.