TRIBUTES have been paid to Gordon Astall after the former England international died at the age of 93.
Astall earned two caps for England in 1956, scoring against Finland on his debut before featuring in a win over world champions West Germany.
Former England international Gordon Astall has died at the age of 93Credit: Rex Features
The former forward enjoyed spells with Plymouth, Birmingham and Torquay in a 16-year careerCredit: Rex Features
Affectionately dubbed as ‘Cannonball’ by fans, the Lancashire-born forward passed away on Wednesday while suffering from dementia.
The Three Lions website wrote: “We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Gordon Astall, who represented the Three Lions in 1956 and was our oldest surviving international, at the age of 93.
“All of our thoughts are with Gordon’s family, friends and former clubs.”
A Plymouth Argyle statement read: “Plymouth Argyle is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former winger Gordon Astall, aged 93.”
The club’s former players’ group, Argyle Legends, wrote on their Facebook page: “Argyle Legends’ thoughts are with his daughter Carole, son David, his 3 grandchildren and other members of his family and friends. RIP GORDON. Another great player for Argyle.”
Fellow former club Birmingham tweeted: “Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
The Championship side’s supporters’ association Blues Trust commented: “Blues Trust are saddened to hear of the death yesterday (21st Oct) of former player Gordon Astall, our condolences to his family RIP.”
A spell with the Royal Marines led to Astall enjoying an amateur level stint with Southampton.
He moved to Plymouth in 1947, starring for over six years before heading to Birmingham.
An England call-up came following great success with the Blues, winning the Second Division title and reaching the FA Cup final.
And the forward, who turned 93 in September, saw out his career with Torquay.
Speaking to the Mail last year, Astall recalled: “I’ve done things I never even thought of.
“Playing for your country, I was chuffed as hell, especially when you think of the players at the same time as me.”
He added: “I have enjoyed it. It’s been a good life.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
