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George Eastham, who was part of England’s 1966 World Cup team, has died at the age of 88.

Eastham did not play in any of the World Cup matches but was part of Sir Alf Ramsey’s squad that ultimately triumphed over West Germany at Wembley.

Born in Blackpool, he spent most of his career at Newcastle, Arsenal, and Stoke.

He is known among football fans as the player who fought to end so-called “slavery contracts”, with his involvement in a 1963 court case helping reform the UK football transfer market, and allowing players greater freedom to move clubs.

Eastham’s father, George Senior, also played for England – winning one cap, and his uncle Harry Eastham played for Liverpool and Stoke.

George Junior secured 19 – playing for his country between 1963 and 1966.

He made 194 League appearances for Stoke, and after a brief stint playing in Northern Ireland, 124 for Newcastle, and 207 for Arsenal.

Eastham retired in 1974 and was awarded an OBE for services to football shortly before.

He managed Stoke in 1977 and 1978 before moving to South Africa where he coached local children and was a vocal anti-Apartheid campaigner.

Black armbands to be worn in memory

Paying tribute to him, Stoke City FC said the club is “immensely saddened”.

“George was signed by the Potters for a £35,000 fee shortly after being part of England’s 1966 World Cup winning squad,” its statement read.

“He went on to represent the club for eight seasons in the top division of the English game and was a two-time FA Cup semi-finalist in red and white.

“He is perhaps best remembered as the man whose goal secured the 1972 League Cup in a 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Wembley.

“The Potters will wear black armbands for the fixture against Sheffield Wednesday as a mark of respect. Our thoughts are with George’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

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