England's 1966 World Cup-winning goalkeeper, universally acclaimed as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history.
Gordon Banks was born in Sheffield on 30 December 1937. He began at Chesterfield before joining Leicester City, where he reached two FA Cup finals. He is best known for his extraordinary save from Pelé's header in the 1970 World Cup, widely considered the greatest save in football history. Banks was England's goalkeeper in the 1966 World Cup triumph, keeping three clean sheets in the tournament. He made 73 appearances for England and won six consecutive FIFA Goalkeeper of the Year awards. He moved to Stoke City in 1967, winning the League Cup in 1972. A car accident in 1972 cost him the sight in one eye, effectively ending his top-level career. He later played in the NASL. Banks was awarded an OBE and died on 12 February 2019.
The greatest save ever made against Pelé in 1970 World Cup
His save from Pelé's header at the 1970 World Cup is widely considered the greatest save in football history — Pelé himself said he thought it was a goal.
Did You Know?How They Played
Athletic shot-stopper with exceptional reflexes, outstanding positioning and distribution
Lasting Impact
Revolutionized goalkeeping with athletic ability and positioning, considered among the greatest goalkeepers in football history
Career Honours
- World Cup 1966
- League Cup 1972
- FIFA GK of Year 6x
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chesterfield | 1958–1959 | 23 | 0 | #1 |
| Leicester City | 1959–1967 | 226 | 0 | #1 |
| Stoke City | 1967–1972 | 44 | 0 | #1 |
| Fort Lauderdale Strikers | 1977–1978 | 39 | 0 | — |
 England | — | 73 | — | — |