Gordon Banks

Gordon Banks

Gordon Banks was born on December 30th, 1937

Full Name: Gordon Banks OBE
Place of Birth: Sheffield, England
Date of Birth: December 30, 1937
Profession: Footballer and Manager
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Height: 6 ft 1 in
International Team: England national team
Position: Goalkeeper

Legendary goalkeeper who made an iconic save from Pele's header in the 1970 World Cup, earning him a place in football history.

Written by: Sofia Garcia Sofia Garcia

Gordon Banks: The Legendary Goalkeeper

Gordon Banks is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, with a career spanning over two decades and numerous accolades to his name. He is perhaps best known for his heroic performances in the 1966 World Cup, where he helped England win the coveted title.

Early Life and Career

Born on December 30, 1937, in Abbeydale, Sheffield, Banks grew up in a working-class area of Tinsley. He began his football career with Chesterfield, joining the club's youth team in 1953. Banks made his first-team debut in November 1958 and was sold to Leicester City for £7,000 in July 1959.

Rise to Fame

Banks' impressive performances for Leicester City earned him a spot in the England national team. He made his international debut in 1963 and went on to win 73 caps for England. His most notable achievement was starting every game of the 1966 World Cup, where England defeated West Germany 4-2 in the final.

Notable Achievements

The Iconic Save

In the 1970 World Cup, Banks made one of the greatest saves in football history, denying Pelé a certain goal in a match against Brazil. This incredible feat cemented his reputation as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.

Tragic Accident and Legacy

In October 1972, Banks was involved in a car crash that cost him the sight in his right eye and eventually forced him to retire from professional football. Despite this setback, he continued to play football, albeit with limited vision, and even won the NASL Goalkeeper of the Year award in 1977.

Later Life and Impact

Banks briefly ventured into management with Telford United but left the game in December 1980. He passed away on February 12, 2019, at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Gordon Banks' remarkable career and achievements have inspired generations of football fans and players alike. His legacy continues to be celebrated, and he remains one of the most iconic figures in English football history.

Timeline
1937
Born in Sheffield
Gordon Banks was born on December 30, 1937, in Sheffield, England. He would go on to become a legendary footballer.
1955
Begins Football Career
Gordon Banks began his football career in 1955, playing for Chesterfield F.C.
1966
Wins World Cup
Gordon Banks was part of the English team that won the 1966 FIFA World Cup.
1972
Retires from Football
Gordon Banks retired from professional football in 1972, after a career spanning over 15 years.
2019
Passes Away
Gordon Banks passed away on February 12, 2019, at the age of 81.
Gordon Banks

Gordon Banks Quiz

Gordon Banks is best known for his achievements in which sport?

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FAQ
What is Gordon Banks most famous save in football history?
Gordon Banks is famous for his incredible save from Pelés header in the 1970 World Cup, which is widely regarded as one of the greatest saves of all time.
What clubs did Gordon Banks play for during his career?
Gordon Banks played for Leicester City and Stoke City during his club career, winning the League Cup with both teams.
What international accolades did Gordon Banks win with England?
Gordon Banks was a key member of the England team that won the 1966 World Cup, and he also won 73 caps for his country between 1963 and 1972.
What was Gordon Banks playing style?
Gordon Banks was known for his exceptional reflexes, shot-stopping ability, and distribution. He was also an excellent organizer and leader, often directing his defenders from behind.
How did Gordon Banks career end?
Gordon Banks lost the sight in one eye in a car accident in 1972, which effectively ended his playing career. He went on to become a successful manager and coach.

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