Towering centre-back who won the World Cup with England and later became a national hero in Ireland as their beloved manager.
John Charlton was born in Ashington, Northumberland on 8 May 1935, elder brother of Bobby. A one-club man, he spent his entire playing career at Leeds United, making 773 appearances over 23 seasons — a club record. A commanding centre-back, he was central to Don Revie's great Leeds side that won the league title in 1969 and the FA Cup in 1972, along with the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup twice. He won the 1966 World Cup alongside his brother Bobby. He earned 35 England caps. As a manager, he became a national hero in the Republic of Ireland, leading them to their first ever World Cup in 1990 and again in 1994. He was awarded an honorary Irish citizenship. Big Jack died on 10 July 2020.
Winning the 1966 World Cup with England
He became so beloved as Republic of Ireland manager that he was granted honorary Irish citizenship — one of only a handful of people to receive the honour.
Did You Know?How They Played
Commanding centre-back known for aerial ability and leadership
Lasting Impact
One of England's greatest defenders and successful international manager
Career Honours
- World Cup 1966
- League Championship 1969
- FA Cup 1972
- Fairs Cup 2x
- First Division 1968-69
- Inter-Cities Fairs Cup 1968
- Inter-Cities Fairs Cup 1971
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leeds United | 1952–1973 | 773 | 70 | #5 |
| Middlesbrough | 1973–1973 | 12 | 2 | #7 |
 England | — | 35 | 6 | — |