Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Former City Boss Passes Away

Sad news today of the unexpected and untimely death of England World Cup hero and former City boss Alan Ball.

It came as quite a shock that Alan died at the young age of just 61 from a suspected heart attack. There are reports that he collapsed in his garden whilst trying to put out a bonfire.

Alan will forever be remembered for his outstanding performance in the 1966 World Cup Final victory over the Germans; an incredible display given that he was at 21, the youngster in that legendary side.

As a player, Ball was arguable ahead of his time, playing with unbelieveable drive and energy compared with most of his fellow players of the same era. Undoubtedly, Alan's best years were at Everton and Arsenal where he assumed legendary status as a player.

Unfortunately, Alan, like so may other top players was unable to emulate his on-field successes as a manager and in a dismal spell as City boss in the mid 90s which saw City relegated and winning less than 25% of the League games.

Nevertheless, we have lost a footballing hero who will be remembered as one of the 20th centuries great England players and one of only a few that have won the highest honour in the game.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

great player ..... rubbish manager

Anonymous said...

I think City fans and fans at the other clubs he managed like Southampton may have a slightly different view from most people. Without doubt he was a great player and a lovely individual, but many of us can't forget that 1995/6 which was one of our (many) recent low points.