Swansea City fan in peace. I created a thread on the Swansea Forum earlier,and one of our guy's suggested I produce it here as well,which I do with great pleasure. Hope you are not offended by my impertinence. "The word "legend" is thrown around in modern day football conversations like confetti at a wedding. Few player's actually merit the accolade,but one who does,was born 100 years ago tomorrow,and no, he didn't play for The Swans',although he did play at The Vetch. His name - Sir Stanley Matthews,ex Stoke City and Blackpool. He was the very first European Footballer of The Year,at the age of 42,playing on into his early 50's. I doubt any of today's "legends" will ever be as revered as Matthews is,or that their 100th birthday will be as celebrated. Go check him out on You Tube." E&OE. Libertarian.
The word legend is often over used. In the case of Sir Stan, however, it certainly applies. I was fortunate to see him play for Stoke on his return in 1961 until his 'retirement' in 1965. He is known and remembered throughout the world of football, was a great ambassador for the game and is a 'Stokie'
Thanks Taff. The man was stand out,but sadly most of the people who post on 606 can't see beyond the likes of Messi,and know little,or nothing,about the likes of Stanley Matthews. Their loss,I guess.
Sir Stanley was an all-time great. I wonder what he would be worth today? My personal hero was Ivor - it would have been something special to have witnessed a match with these two players on opposing sides!
Ivor was my boyhood hero as well. So much so that my mother promised she would put him in my stocking at Christmas. All I talked about was Ivor. Sadly,she never fulfilled her promise. She knew him casually,and she and I met him near High Street Station,many years after his retirement. She told him about my adoration of him as a youngster. He was very gracious,and kind. Ivor was one of Swansea's greatest sons'. Not for nothing was he crowned "The Golden Boy",he was,and modest with it. The Geordies loved him as well.
can I just say that I did not put yhe post above in, it is dated february and I have no idea how it got there, as far as sir stan goes he was and still is a legend. I do not think its fair though to compare stan to messi, both unbelievable players in completely different circumstances
Ivor was my footballing hero when I was a young boy - he had returned to the Swans to see out his League playing days. His brother (Len) - who was also a good international player - is still alive.
As an outsider with an interest in stoke, I'm championing Mark Hughes whilst playing for us at the Camp Nou. thoughts?
Some small clubs played at: Manchester United (twice) Chelsea Bayern Munich Barcelona Plus - Everton, Southampton & Blackburn. Not too shabby eh !!
Although his managerial career is possibly questionable. There is no doubt he was a top top marksman where-ever he went. Feared by many across Europe. Good luck gents.
