I was a mere nipper when Alan Ball played his considerable part for the victorious England football side in the 1966 World Cup final. So my first memories of him as a footballer was when he joined Arsenal from Everton in December 1971 for £220,000 (at the time, a record fee). He played for the Gunners between 1971 - 1976, making 177 appearences, scoring 45 goals and was one of the few highlights in an indifferent period of Arsenal's history (the club were nearly relegated from the top flight during the 1975/76 season).
His death yesterday of a heart attack at the age of 61 was a shock.
In today's time when fleeting glimpses of skill are rewarded with instant celebrity status, Alan Ball was a genuine legend for Arsenal, Everton and England.
RIP James Alan Ball, MBE
His death yesterday of a heart attack at the age of 61 was a shock.
In today's time when fleeting glimpses of skill are rewarded with instant celebrity status, Alan Ball was a genuine legend for Arsenal, Everton and England.
RIP James Alan Ball, MBE
(12 May 1945 – 25 April 2007)
Alan Ball remembered
Alan Ball remembered
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