Sir Alf Ramsey

As manager his no-nonsense style and tactical knowledge was the backbone of his success, and his faith in youngsters such as Alan Ball and Martin Peters was vital to England's winning campaign.

As a player he made nearly 100 appearances for Southampton scoring eight goals, before moving to Spurs and earning 32 caps for his country.

When he retired from playing in 1955 to become Ipswich manager, he sensationally guided the Suffolk club from the Third Division South through to First Division champions in 1962.

Despite being most people's favourites for relegation, Ramsey's tactical ability saw Ipswich lift the title in the first ever season in the top flight, and it was this showing that prompted England to appoint him as manager in 1963.

Ramsey shook up the England camp from the moment he arrived, naming young star Bobby Moore his captain, and stating instantly that he would lead England to a World Cup win in 1966.

The rest is history as Ramsey's 'wingless wonders' did indeed deliver his promise, as another of his young stars Geoff Hurst bagged a hat trick to win the World Cup at Wembley.

Ramsey was sacked as England manager in 1974 and after a brief stint as Birmingham City manager retired from football in 1978.

Ramsey died in 1999 from Alzheimer's disease aged 79, after suffering a stroke during the 1998 World Cup Name: Sir Alf Ramsey OCCUPATION: Saints footballer and World Cup winning manager Date of birth: January 22, 1920 DIED: April 28, 1999 LOCAL LINK: Revered Saints player who achieved iconic national status