# Gordon Banks

> English association football player (1937–2019)

**Wikidata**: [Q213879](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q213879)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gordon_Banks)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gordon-banks

## Summary
Gordon Banks was an English professional association football (soccer) player, widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in history. Born in 1937, he achieved global fame for his exceptional skills, most notably his iconic save against Pelé during the 1970 FIFA World Cup. Banks also contributed to the sport as a coach and autobiographer, leaving a lasting legacy in English football.

## Biography
- **Born**: December 30, 1937
- **Died**: February 12, 2019
- **Nationality**: English (United Kingdom)
- **Occupation**: Association football player, coach, autobiographer
- **Known for**: Legendary goalkeeper, 1966 FIFA World Cup winner with England, iconic save against Pelé in 1970
- **Field(s)**: Association football (soccer)
- **Work period**: 1955–1978

## Contributions
Gordon Banks made significant contributions to football as a player and coach:
- **1966 FIFA World Cup**: Played a pivotal role in England’s victory, conceding only three goals in six matches.
- **1970 FIFA World Cup**: Made one of the most famous saves in football history, denying Pelé’s header in the group stage.
- **Club Career**: Played for Chesterfield, Leicester City, and Stoke City, earning a reputation as a world-class goalkeeper.
- **Coaching**: Transitioned into coaching after retirement, sharing his expertise with younger players.
- **Autobiography**: Wrote his autobiography, documenting his career and experiences in football.

## FAQs
**What teams did Gordon Banks play for?**
Gordon Banks played for Chesterfield (1955–1959), Leicester City (1959–1967), and Stoke City (1967–1972). He also had a brief stint with Fort Lauderdale Strikers in the U.S. (1977–1978).

**What was Gordon Banks’ most famous moment?**
His most famous moment was the "Save of the Century" during the 1970 World Cup, where he miraculously stopped Pelé’s header, a save still celebrated in football history.

**Did Gordon Banks win any major trophies?**
Yes, he won the 1966 FIFA World Cup with England and the League Cup with Leicester City (1964) and Stoke City (1972).

**Was Gordon Banks recognized for his contributions?**
Yes, he was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame and awarded the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

**Did Gordon Banks write any books?**
Yes, he authored an autobiography, sharing insights into his career and life.

## Why They Matter
Gordon Banks redefined the role of a goalkeeper with his agility, reflexes, and consistency. His performances in the 1966 World Cup helped England secure its only major international trophy, cementing his legacy. The 1970 save against Pelé remains a benchmark for goalkeeping excellence, inspiring generations of players. Beyond his playing career, his coaching and autobiography contributed to football’s cultural and technical development.

## Notable For
- **1966 FIFA World Cup winner** with England.
- **"Save of the Century"** against Pelé in the 1970 World Cup.
- **Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)**.
- **English Football Hall of Fame inductee**.
- **League Cup winner** with Leicester City (1964) and Stoke City (1972).
- **Autobiographer**, documenting his football journey.

## Body

### Early Life and Career Beginnings
Gordon Banks was born on December 30, 1937, in England. He began his professional football career in 1955 with Chesterfield, where he quickly established himself as a talented goalkeeper.

### Rise to Prominence
In 1959, Banks joined Leicester City, where he won the League Cup in 1964. His performances earned him a move to Stoke City in 1967, where he continued to excel, winning another League Cup in 1972.

### International Career and World Cup Glory
Banks’ international career peaked with England’s 1966 World Cup victory. His leadership and shot-stopping were instrumental in the team’s success. Four years later, his save against Pelé in the 1970 World Cup became legendary, showcasing his unparalleled reflexes.

### Later Career and Coaching
After retiring as a player in 1978, Banks transitioned into coaching, mentoring young goalkeepers. He also played briefly in the U.S. for Fort Lauderdale Strikers (1977–1978).

### Awards and Recognition
Banks was honored with an OBE and inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of football’s greatest goalkeepers.

### Legacy
Gordon Banks’ influence extends beyond his playing days. His techniques and professionalism set standards for future generations, and his World Cup heroics remain a defining part of English football history. His autobiography further preserved his legacy, offering fans and players alike a glimpse into his remarkable career.

### Personal Life and Death
Banks passed away on February 12, 2019, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most respected figures in football. His contributions to the sport continue to be celebrated worldwide.

## References

1. nasljerseys.com
2. Transfermarkt
3. FBref
4. [Source](https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/gordon-banks-dies-stoke-city-2531230)
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. BBC Things