John Connelly, England World Cup Winner, Dies

66 World Cup Winner Connelly Dies

England World Cup-winner John Connelly has died at the age of 74.

Former Burnley, Manchester United, Blackburn and Bury right-winger Connelly started the opening game of England's triumphant 1966 campaign, a goalless draw against Uruguay at Wembley.

The match proved to be the last of his 20 international caps, during which time he scored seven goals.

At club level, Connelly was twice a league champion - helping Burnley to the First Division title in 1960 during a prolific spell that brought 105 goals in 265 appearances.

Connelly started against Uruguay

In April 1964 he made the move to Old Trafford and, playing on the opposite flank to George Best, helped Matt Busby's side to the title the following year.

The season after being a part of World Cup glory, Connelly moved back to east Lancashire for a four-year spell with Blackburn before joining Bury and hanging his boots up in May 1973.

Connelly arrives at Maine Road for Bert Trautmann's benefit match in 1964

A club statement on Connelly released by Burnley read: "One of Burnley's most prolific and popular wingers, he died peacefully at home on Thursday morning.

"The flag at Turf Moor will fly at half mast as a mark of respect to one of the Clarets' favourite sons."

Close

What's Hot