English began his career with Junior side Yoker Athletic before joining Rangers in July 1931. He holds the Rangers record for the most league goals scored in one season: 44 goals from 35 appearances in his debut season of 1931–32. English scored 53 goals in all competitions that season, including a five-goal haul against Morton, four goals against Queens Park and hat-tricks against Dundee United, Leith Athletic, Falkirk, Brechin City, Ayr United and Raith Rovers. English won the Scottish Cup final in 1932, with him scoring Rangers' second goal in a 3–0 win over Kilmarnock. English was less prolific the following season, but still scored 11 goals in 30 league and cup matches, helping Rangers to win the Scottish League Championship.