1966 England World Cup-winning hero George Eastham no more as he sadly died today at the age of 88 in Blackpool.
1966 World Cup winner George Eastham has died aged 88.
The attacker, who was born in Blackpool, made 19 appearances for his country. He was a member of manager Sir Alf Ramsey’s team at the World Cup 58 years ago, but he did not play when England won it for the first time ever.
In addition, he was left out of the 1962 World Cup roster. In 1963, he made his England debut at Wembley against Brazil in an FA Centenary match. Prior to the 1966 World Cup, he made his final appearance in a 2-0 friendly victory against Denmark.
Initially, only the eleven players who began the 1966 final versus West Germany were given winners’ medals; but, after a campaign, Eastham and other team members—including Ramsey—were given medals in 2009.
Soon after the 1966 World Cup, Eastham joined Stoke for £35,000 after playing for Newcastle United and Arsenal.
He made 194 appearances for the Potters, who defeated Chelsea 2-1 at Wembley in the 1972 League Cup final and he scored the game-winning goal.
In 1973, Eastham received an OBE for his contributions to football. He was also involved in a 1963 court battle that significantly reformed the British transfer market by improving players’ freedom to move between teams.
After retiring from competition in 1974, he managed Stoke from March 1977 until January 1978.
In addition to wearing black armbands for their match against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday (12:30 GMT), Stoke stated that they were “immensely saddened by the passing of club legend” Eastham.
They also intend to honour Eastham on December 26 when they play Leeds United at home.
“Our thoughts are with George’s family and friends at this difficult time,” the club added.