England 1966 World Cup squad member Eastham dies at 88

George Eastham, a member of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning squad, has died aged 88.

The Blackpool-born forward made 19 international appearances and, while he was part of manager Sir Alf Ramsey’s squad at the World Cup 58 years ago, he did not play as England won it for the only time in their history.

He was also an unused squad member at the 1962 World Cup and went on to make his England debut in an FA Centenary match against Brazil at Wembley in 1963. His last appearance was in 2-0 friendly win over Denmark before the 1966 World Cup.

Only the 11 players that started the final against West Germany in 1966 were initially awarded winners’ medals but, following a campaign, Eastham and other squad members – and Ramsey – received medals in 2009.

The Football Association said it was “saddened” by Eastham’s passing and “our condolences go to George’s family and friends”.

Eastham played for Newcastle United and Arsenal before joining Stoke for £35,000 shortly after the 1966 World Cup.

He played 194 times for the Potters and scored the winner for them in the 1972 League Cup final when they beat Chelsea 2-1 at Wembley.

Eastham was also involved in a 1963 court case which improved players’ freedom to move between clubs in a major reforming of the British transfer market and he was awarded an OBE for his services to football in 1973.

He retired from playing in 1974 and then had a stint as Stoke manager from March 1977 to January 1978.

Stoke said they were “immensely saddened by the passing of club legend” Eastham and would wear black armbands for their game at Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday (12:30 GMT).

They also plan to pay tribute to Eastham at their home game against Leeds United on 26 December.

“Our thoughts are with George’s family and friends at this difficult time,” the club added.