Wilson played every match of the 1966 World Cup at left-back, forming England’s defensive line with George Cohen, Jack Charlton and Bobby Moore. At 31, he was the oldest member of Alf Ramsey’s squad.
His contribution was not limited to defending. Wilson regularly pushed forward and created Roger Hunt’s goal in the semi-final against Portugal. In the final, England defeated West Germany 4-2, securing the country’s only men’s World Cup title.
That balance between discipline and adventure defined Wilson’s game. He was reliable enough for Ramsey’s system, but brave enough to influence matches from deep.
Wilson’s club career began with Huddersfield Town under Bill Shankly, before taking him to Everton, Oldham and Bradford. He also had a brief spell as Bradford’s caretaker manager before leaving football in 1971.
Away from the pitch, his path was unusually grounded. Wilson and his wife, Pat, returned to Huddersfield, where he joined his father-in-law’s funeral business. He trained as a mortician, reportedly returning to education to gain the qualifications required for the role, and remained with the family firm until 1997.
Wilson won 63 England caps, received an MBE in 2000 and continued to be remembered for his dry humour. Former team-mate George Cohen recalled Wilson calling after learning of Cohen’s cancer: “I was ringing to offer you a deal.”
Wilson was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2004 and died in May 2018, aged 83. His legacy remains particularly strong in Huddersfield, where a commemorative kit later celebrated his place in the club’s history.
When future generations revisit England’s next major tournament campaign, Wilson’s story should remain part of the conversation: a world champion whose greatest achievement was matched by the dignity of his life afterwards.