EFY – (1960-1965)

Greatest players

Bobby Charlton
Debut – 19th April 1958 V Scotland
Caps – 106
Goals – 49
Bobby Charlton was more than a fantastic player, he was a model sportsman and an example to all youngsters. Charlton scored four hat tricks for England – against Mexico, Luxembourg, Switzerland and USA. The highlight of his international career was England’s triumph in the 1966 world cup. After a lacklustre performance against Uruguay, Charlton let rip two crackers against Mexico to set England on their way. Two more goals against Portugal put England on the brink of glory and despite not scoring in the final, Charlton’s contribution to the tournament was invaluable. To this day Charlton remains England’s all time leading goal scorer with 49 goals for his country.

Ray Wilson
Debut – 9th April 1960 V Scotland
Caps - 63

In 1963 Ray Wilson was regarded by many as the best left back in the world. A supremely reliable defender with precise tackling ability with both feet, the impeccably mannered Wilson was a model of footballing efficiency. Wilson played in all six of England’s world cup matches in 1966. A losing battle against osteoarthritis signaled the end of his successful career playing football. Ray Wilson was over 31 years old when England triumphed over West Germany in the world cup final.

George Cohen
Debut – 6th May 1964 V Uruguay
Caps – 37

George Cohen was simply one of the greatest full backs England ever produced. He was an automatic choice for five years until injury ended his career prematurely. In 28 of his 37 international’s he partnered Ray Wilson, forming one of the deadliest full back pairings ever seen on world stage. George Cohen won the world cup in 1966 with England, which in fact was the only trophy he won as a player. The fastest wingers found it difficult to beat him for speed and very few could go past him. He was strong in the tackle and had prodigious ability to snuff attacks almost before they even started.

Gordon Banks
Debut – 6th April 1963 V Scotland
Caps – 73

The standards that Gordon banks set in the early 1960’s were phenomenal. He had great anticipation, faultless potential play, lightning reflexes, amazing bravery and superb athleticism and agility. Gordon Banks only conceded 56 goals in his 73 appearances for England, and kept 35 clean sheets in total for England. Gordon Banks save against Pele simply confirmed what the majority of people recognized in 1970- that Gordon banks was the best goal keeper in the world. He won the world cup in 1966 with England.