A former professional footballer who played as a winger, known for his pace and skill on the pitch, earning him a reputation as a fan favorite.
Gordon West, a stalwart English professional football goalkeeper, is best known for his impressive career with Everton, where he won three international caps and numerous accolades. During his tenure with the Toffees, he formed an unbeatable partnership with central defender and captain, Brian Labone, leading the team to victory in the 1962-1963 Football League First Division and the 1966 FA Cup.
West was born on April 24, 1943, and began his football journey as a defender for Barnsley, Don and Dearne Boys. However, when accompanying a friend to a trial with Blackpool, he decided to try out as a goalkeeper, and the Lancashire club signed him. West made his debut for Blackpool at the tender age of 17 and went on to play 33 League games before being signed by Everton in March 1962 for a then-British record fee of £27,000 for a goalkeeper.
During his time at Everton, West became the club's first-choice goalkeeper for over a decade, making an astonishing 399 appearances for the Toffees. He won the 1966 FA Cup and was a runner-up in 1968. In the 1969-1970 season, Everton won the league again, with West keeping 21 clean sheets, still a club record.
West won three caps for England, but surprisingly turned down a place in the 1970 FIFA World Cup squad to stay at home with his family.
After retiring from football in 1973, West worked in security at RAF Woodvale and became an after-dinner speaker. He later came out of retirement to play briefly for Tranmere Rovers, making 17 League appearances for the Wirral club.
West lived in Brighton-le-Sands, Merseyside, and sadly passed away on June 10, 2012, after a long battle with cancer. His funeral was attended by several football legends, including Martin Buchan, Colin Harvey, Dave Hickson, John Hurst, Cliff Marshall, Peter Reid, and George Telfer.
Throughout his career, West's dedication, hard work, and passion for the game inspired countless young footballers. His decision to prioritize family over a World Cup spot speaks volumes about his values and commitment to those around him.
Gordon West's remarkable career and achievements continue to inspire future generations of footballers, goalkeepers, and fans alike. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a passion for the beautiful game.
88 Years Old
A legendary English footballer and manager who won the Ballon d'Or in 1966 and led Manchester United to numerous titles, including the European Cup. He's a national hero and icon in English football.
80 Years Old
A mercurial winger and attacking midfielder who dazzled fans with his pace, skill, and goalscoring ability, earning him the nickname "the fifth Beatle" for his rockstar-like status.
85 Years Old
A legendary English footballer and captain who led his team to win the 1966 World Cup, known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership on the pitch.
91 Years Old
A legendary footballer and manager who led the Republic of Ireland to unprecedented success in major tournaments, earning iconic status in Irish football history.
84 Years Old
A World Cup-winning midfielder and manager, known for his tenacious playing style and iconic toothless grin.
82 Years Old
A skilled midfielder who won the 1966 World Cup with England and scored in the final, known for his creative playing style and vision on the pitch.
88 Years Old
A prolific goal-scorer, winner of the 1966 World Cup with England and a key player in Liverpool's dominant era of the 1960s.
84 Years Old
Scored the winning goal in the 1966 World Cup Final, cementing England's victory and becoming a national hero. 42
