'Dream Come True': Charlton Brother's England Debut At 72 In World's First Walking Football International
It is more than half a century since Bobby and Jack Charlton had their finest moment when they helped England to win the World Cup at Wembley. Now their younger brother, Tommy, is making his own England debut — at the age of 72.
Yesterday, Tommy Charlton took to the field at Brighton and Hove Albion's stadium as part of an over-60s side playing Italy.
His team won 3-1, with Charlton having two good chances to score but the attempts were saved by the keeper.
He described putting on the England three lions shirt - which is almost identical to the kit his brothers wore during the World Cup final 52 years ago - as "a dream come true".
Unfortunately, his brothers were not at the venue to see him play but they sent a note expressing their best wishes to him.
It said: "Hope you have a good game. Thinking of you. Sorry we can't be there but I know you will be brilliant.
"Both Bobby and myself are incredibly proud of the fact that at the tender age of 72 you are able to follow in the family footsteps and get to play for England. So very proud of you Tom. All the very best, Jackie and Bobby Charlton."
Tommy Charlton became quite emotional when the letter was read out to him on Sky News, saying: "Hearing my brothers talk like that is quite something."
The pensioner won a place in the team after impressing national selectors during a trial at Burnley FC's training ground in March.
Charlton, who currently plays for The Mature Millers walking football club in Rotherham, said: "I never in a million years thought that I'd follow in the footsteps of my brothers and represent England.
"I was shocked when I got the call but am delighted to be in the squad for the first ever walking football international against Italy.
"There are so many good walking footballers in this country and it will be an honour to play alongside them and against a strong Italian side."
Charlton also spoke of delight at playing walking football, saying it is a sport "that has given me so much."
"It's social, promotes better health and is played in the right spirit."
Charlton was aged just 20 when he watched his two older brothers help England beat West Germany 4-2 and win the 1966 World Cup at Wembley.
(sky news)
Disclaimer: Stories culled and pictures posted on this blog will be given due credit and is not the fault of drifternews.blogspot.com if website culled from misrepresents source of story.
Posts
No comments: