With Arsenal's regular centre forward Henry White out of form and no money available to buy a replacement, Arsenal manager Leslie Knighton switched Turnbull from defence to attack, and the gamble paid off; Turnbull scored 21 league goals that season, including two four-goal hauls against Bolton Wanderers and Blackpool. Turnbull's goals saved Arsenal from relegation and they eventually finished a comfortable 11th.
Arsenal was struggling with Henry White's poor form and lack of funds to buy a replacement striker. Manager Leslie Knighton made a strategic move by shifting Turnbull from defense to attack, which proved successful as he scored 21 league goals that season, including two four-goal games against Bolton Wanderers and Blackpool.  Turnbull's goals helped Arsenal avoid relegation and they finished the season in 11th place.