GERRY FRANCIS: Playing against Pele was one of the proudest moments of my career

Sharing a pitch with Pele has come so lately when England captaincy is my proudest second.

Like many gamers of my technology, he was my idol rising up, after I was seven years outdated watching the 1958 World Cup, I fell in love with him and Brazil, and needed one in every of their jerseys to my grandfather’s annoyance. to be a proud Brit.

Pele was 35 after I lastly obtained the prospect to play him for England in opposition to Staff America in Philadelphia in 1976, and he was nonetheless a participant even then; two brilliant toes, lightning quick, fantastic steadiness and extraordinary within the air.

Thought-about one of many biggest gamers of all time, Pele handed away final week on the age of 82.

Former captain Gerry Francis (proper) starred within the final England group Pele (proper) performed in opposition to.

I need to say he’s the very best participant I’ve performed in opposition to. In his thirties, I walked away from that recreation, pondering he may nonetheless play in our First Division. Though we received the match 3-1 – and I managed to attain! – he was their largest risk and compelled Ray Clemence to some good saves.

When you think about the safety that gifted gamers add to raised pitches and sports activities science at this time, I feel it might make billions within the trendy recreation.

I am not usually shocked, however after I met him on the Sky Sports activities studios a couple of years later, I requested him to autograph a photograph I took of him and Bobby Moore earlier than our recreation in 1976, which continues to be on show in my examine. home.

The Brazilian legend has received three World Cups and helped make soccer a world sport.

Even enjoying the English nationwide group within the USA was in Pele’s arms. Though many Individuals play ‘soccer’, it was not thought of a serious spectator sport till he went there and unfold the information.

Due to his expertise and persona, he turned a family title like all American Soccer and basketball stars. Soccer is a very world recreation at this time and it will depend on Pele.

It is unattainable to match the totally different eras of the sport with certainty however I have been in soccer for over 50 years as a participant, coach and supervisor, so I’ve seen lots of the greats and I can say he is the very best.