British · Hepworth, West Yorkshire · Born 14 December 1960English footballer and winger known for his skill, creativity and pace. Made 62 England appearances and won three consecutive Ligue 1 titles with Marseille.
Christopher Roland Waddle was born in Hepworth, West Yorkshire in 1960. He developed at Newcastle United before Tottenham signed him in 1985. His three seasons at Spurs produced 42 goals in 138 appearances before Marseille paid £4.5 million in 1989 — the fourth-highest transfer in history at the time. His three years in France were the finest of his career — he won three consecutive Division 1 titles (1990, 1991, 1992) and reached the European Cup final, being named the French league's best player. He returned to England with Sheffield Wednesday (1992–96). He earned 62 England caps, scoring 6 goals. His missed penalty in the 1990 World Cup semi-final shootout against Germany is one of English football's most painful moments. His dribbling ability — running at defenders with a deceptive, unpredictable style — and his creative intelligence made him one of the most technically gifted English wingers of his era. He later worked as a commentator and pundit.
Missing decisive penalty in 1990 World Cup semi-final shootout
He was voted the best player outside England and Italy in the late 1980s — yet played most of his career in the Second Division.
Did You Know?How They Played
Creative winger with exceptional dribbling skills, pace and crossing ability
Lasting Impact
One of England's most skilful wingers who achieved great success in France
Career Honours
- Ligue 1 3x (Marseille)
- French Footballer of Year 2x
- 62 England caps
- Ligue 1 1990
- Ligue 1 1991
- Ligue 1 1992
| Club | Period | Fee | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bradford City | 1997–1998 | — | 10 | 0 | — |
| Newcastle United | 1980–1985 | — | 170 | 46 | #11 |
| Tottenham Hotspur | 1985–1989 | £590,000 | 138 | 33 | — |
| Olympique Marseille | 1989–1992 | £4.25m | 107 | 13 | — |
| Sheffield Wednesday | 1992–1996 | £1m | 109 | 10 | — |
| Falkirk | 1996–1997 | — | 28 | 1 | — |
| Sunderland | 1998–1998 | — | 7 | 0 | — |
| Burnley | 1998–1999 | — | 21 | 0 | — |
| Torquay United | 2000–2001 | — | 17 | 1 | — |
 Great Britain | — | — | 62 | 6 | — |
British Athletes