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Football Biography

Ray Wilson

“Ray”

English flag English · Shirebrook, Derbyshire · Born 17 December 1934

Left Back

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The unsung left-back of England's 1966 World Cup-winning team whose consistency and defensive excellence earned widespread respect.

Ramon Wilson was born in Shirebrook, Derbyshire on 17 December 1934. He began at Huddersfield Town, where he made over 260 appearances, before joining Everton in 1964. A quick, reliable and technically sound left-back, he was a fixture in the England defence throughout the 1960s. He was a key member of the 1966 World Cup-winning squad, starting every match in the tournament. He earned 63 England caps, an outstanding total for a full-back in that era. At Everton he won the FA Cup in 1966 and was part of a strong squad but injuries began to limit him. He later played for Oldham Athletic and Bradford City before retiring. Wilson, one of the quieter heroes of '66, passed away on 15 May 2018.

Famous For

Being England's left-back in their 1966 World Cup triumph

After retiring from football, he became an undertaker in Huddersfield — one of the most unusual post-football careers of any World Cup winner.

Did You Know?
Playing Style

How They Played

Solid defensive left-back with excellent positional sense and reliable crossing ability

Legacy

Lasting Impact

Considered one of England's greatest left-backs and a key player in the 1966 World Cup winning team

Honours & Achievements

Career Honours

  • World Cup 1966
  • FA Cup 1966
Club Career
Club Period Apps Goals Shirt
Huddersfield Town1952–19642603#3
Everton1964–19691166
Oldham Athletic1970–197100
Bradford City1971–197200
English flag England63
Career Journey

Timeline

1952 📌 Professional debut with Huddersfield Town
1960 🌍 England international debut
1964 📌 Transferred to Everton
1966 🏆 Won FA Cup with Everton
1966 🏆 Won World Cup with England
1968 🌍 Final England appearance
1972 📌 Retired from professional football
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

5 common questions about Ray Wilson

Yes, he started every match in the tournament as England's left-back and was a key member of the winning team.

He earned 63 caps for England, an impressive total for a full-back in that era.

He became an undertaker in Huddersfield, one of the most unusual post-football careers of any World Cup winner.

He played for Huddersfield Town, Everton, Oldham Athletic and Bradford City.

Ray Wilson was born on 17 December 1934 in Shirebrook, Derbyshire. He passed away on 15 May 2018.