George Radcliffe played his early football in the North Staffordshire League. His football skills resulted in him being signed by Crewe Alexandra. Later he had spells at Sheffield United and Grimsby Town. 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 Radcliffe, Hugh Monteith (Bristol City), Fergus Hunt (Arsenal), Freddie Fenton (Gainsborough), James Reid (Port Vale), Albert Kaye (Chatham) and Billy Grassam (Port Vale). Radcliffe played in 17 games in his first season. His four goals was a disappointing return. Three of those came in the last two matches of the season. The 1901-02 season was a big improvement and he ended up as joint top scorer with Billy Grassam. Radcliffe scored 10 in 24 games. At the end of the season Radcliffe was transferred to Doncaster Rovers.