William Bannister (1879 – 25 March 1942) was an English professional footballer who played as a defender for Burnley, Bolton Wanderers, Woolwich Arsenal and Leicester Fosse. Bannister also played at international level, earning two caps with the England national side between 1901 and 1902.

William Bannister was born in Burnley, Lancashire in early 1879. As a teenager, he worked as a coal miner at the Barden Colliery before moving into professional football. After his football career ended, Bannister resided in Leicester and owned a public house in the city. He died on 25 March 1942, at the age of 63.^[1]

Following his performances for Burnley, Bannister was called up to the England national football team in 1901. He made his international debut on 18 March 1901 in the 6–0 victory over Wales at St James' Park. Bannister was again selected for the national side the following year, while playing for Bolton. His second and final international cap came against Ireland on 22 March 1902.^[2]