Ray Wilson was the last Town player to feature in a World Cup
- Ray Wilson’s career celebrated at Town’s next Premier League game
- Defender made over 350 appearances for Town and Everton
- Ray made his England debut whilst with the Terriers
The career of World Cup winner Ray Wilson will be celebrated at Huddersfield Town’s Premier League game against Everton on Saturday 28 April 2018.
Ray is arguably the most successful and best-known player to ever pull on a Huddersfield Town shirt and will be recognised by many for his part in England’s 1966 World Cup winning side.
During the World Cup winning year, Ray was plying his trade at Town’s next Premier League opponent, Everton, at Goodison Park, but after being nurtured at Leeds Road, he will always remain dear in the hearts of Town fans.
Despite being born in Mansfield, Ray signed for Town at the age of just 17 after receiving his first professional contract by Andy Beattie.
In the 1957/58 season, Ray became a regular under legendary manager Bill Shankly and went from strength to strength.
It was during his time at Town, in 1960, where he won his first of 63 England caps, going on to win his first 30 wearing the blue and white stripes.
In June 1964, after 283 appearances and 12 years at Leeds Road, Ray transferred to Everton. He remains the last player to be capped by England, whilst on Town’s books.
Two seasons later and Wembley would bring double delight to the full-back. He received an FA Cup Winners medal with Everton and a World Cup Winners medal with England.
Ray’s World Cup victory brought immense pride to the terraces of Leeds Road after his talent was cultivated at Huddersfield Town.
Unfortunately, Ray now suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, but attends Huddersfield Town matches with his two sons when he can.
The sponsor of the Ray Wilson Suite, EverGroup, is running a collection in the suite to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.
You will be able to find out more information on Ray around the John Smith’s Stadium, on the special FanKlappers and inside the Club’s Official Match Day programme ‘The Terrier’.
