Brown was often used as a Utility player, but predominantly featured in the inside-forward positions during his Football League career. He played at inside-right, partnering Dick Richards, in the 1923 FA Cup Final against Bolton Wanderers. A month later, he played for England in a reserve international against France. He gained a full cap the following year, scoring in a 2–2 draw against Belgium at The Hawthorns that saw him playing alongside West Ham teammate Ted Hufton.