Bobby
Charlton
(England)
Bobby Charlton is without doubt one of the most famous
English players of all time. His name is synonymous
with some of the greatest moments in the English game,
but also with the highest traditions of sportsmanship
and integrity. Bobby using his pace out of midfield
and with a thunderous shot, scored some of the most
spectacular goals English football has ever seen. Born
in Ashington on October 11th 1937, he was signed by
Manchester United when aged 17. As one of the
"Busby Babes" to survive the Munich air
disaster, he teamed up with Denis Law and George Best
in the 1960s to produce some of United's greatest ever
football.
Charlton remained faithful to United and in his time
there from 1956-73, he won the league championship
three times, the FA Cup once and the European Cup
once. Benfica was beaten 4-1 in a memorable final in
1968 at Wembley. All in all Charlton played more than
750 games for Manchester United and scored 247 goals
in all competitions. He was also voted "European
Footballer of the Year" in 1966. The same year
England hosted and won the World Cup for their first
and so far only time.
Charlton was instrumental in England's triumph. After
a poor start against Uruguay, England beat France and
Mexico. Charlton scored a stunning goal against the
Central Americans. Then Argentina and Portugal were
eliminated in the knock-out stages, with Charlton
scoring both England's goals in the 2-1 win over
Portugal. In a memorable final England beat West
Germany after extra time. Charlton retired from
international football when England were defeated by
West Germany four years later in Mexico in the
quarterfinals. Charlton played 106 times for England -
a record at that time - and scored 49 goals, which is
still a record in English football. Having retired
from all football in 1973 he became manager of Preston
NE, worked as director of Wigan Athletic, and in 1984
was appointed director of Manchester United. He was
awarded a CBE in 1974 and a knighthood in 1994. He is
currently working as ambassador for Manchester United
and England's 2006 World Cup bid.
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