A skilled midfielder who played for Arsenal and the English national team, earning 21 caps and scoring 3 goals, known for his pace and agility on the pitch.
Jon Sammels, born on July 23, 1945, is an English former footballer best known for his impressive stint with Arsenal, where he showcased his exceptional skills as a midfielder and scored crucial goals to cement his place in the club's history.
Jonnathon Charles Sammels, hailing from Grundisburgh near Woodbridge in Suffolk, joined Arsenal in 1961, realizing his childhood dream of playing for the club he supported. His journey began in the reserves, where he consistently performed, eventually earning seven caps for England at the youth international level.
Sammels made his first-team debut for Arsenal on April 27, 1963, against Blackpool, scoring a goal that set the tone for his successful career. Although he didn't secure a regular spot immediately, he persisted, and his accurate passing and strong shooting abilities eventually earned him a starting position in the 1965-1966 season.
In the 1966-1967 season, Sammels became an ever-present figure in the Arsenal lineup, showcasing his prowess on the field. He also represented England at the U23 level, earning nine caps and solidifying his reputation as a talented midfielder.
Sammels played a crucial role in Arsenal's League Cup final appearances in 1968 and 1969, although the team fell short of victory on both occasions. His perseverance paid off when he scored the winning goal in the 1969-1970 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, helping Arsenal secure a 4-3 aggregate victory over RSC Anderlecht.
Despite struggling with an ankle injury and facing stiff competition from George Graham, Sammels played enough games to win a First Division winners' medal in the 1970-1971 season. Although he didn't participate in the FA Cup Final win over Liverpool, his contributions to the team's Double-winning season were invaluable.
After submitting a transfer request, Sammels joined Leicester City for £100,000, where he spent the next seven seasons, playing 265 matches and scoring 25 goals. Under Jimmy Bloomfield's guidance, Leicester City became a talented and exciting side, although they never finished above seventh in the league and only won the 1971 Charity Shield during Sammels' tenure.
In his storied career, Sammels played 270 matches for Arsenal, scoring 52 goals, leaving an indelible mark on the club's history. His dedication, persistence, and exceptional skills on the field have made him a beloved figure among Arsenal fans, solidifying his place as a Premier League legend.
