# Tom Finney

> English footballer (1922–2014)

**Wikidata**: [Q352338](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q352338)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Finney)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/tom-finney

## Summary
Tom Finney was an English footballer (1922–2014) renowned for his exceptional skill and loyalty to Preston North End, where he played his entire professional career. Known as "The Preston Plumber," he was celebrated for his sportsmanship, technical ability, and contributions to English football during the mid-20th century.

## Biography
- **Born**: April 5, 1922
- **Nationality**: British (United Kingdom)
- **Known for**: Association football (soccer) career, particularly with Preston North End and the England national team
- **Employer(s)**: Preston North End (1946–1963)
- **Field(s)**: Professional football (association football)

## Contributions
Tom Finney made significant contributions to English football as a forward for Preston North End from 1946 to 1963. His career was marked by consistency, skill, and loyalty, earning him the nickname "The Preston Plumber" due to his humble background in the plumbing trade. He represented England in international matches, showcasing his talent on the global stage. His sportsmanship and dedication to the sport left a lasting legacy in English football history.

## FAQs
**What was Tom Finney's nickname?**
Tom Finney was famously known as "The Preston Plumber," a nickname that reflected his working-class roots and his profession outside of football.

**Which club did Tom Finney play for?**
Tom Finney spent his entire professional career (1946–1963) playing for Preston North End, a club he remained loyal to throughout his footballing years.

**What awards did Tom Finney receive?**
Tom Finney was honored with the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and later knighted as a Knight Bachelor for his contributions to football and society.

**When did Tom Finney pass away?**
Tom Finney died on February 14, 2014, leaving behind a legacy as one of England's greatest footballers.

## Why They Matter
Tom Finney's impact on English football extends beyond his technical skills and goal-scoring ability. His loyalty to Preston North End, despite offers from larger clubs, symbolized dedication and integrity in an era when player transfers were becoming more common. His sportsmanship and humble demeanor made him a role model for future generations of footballers. Finney's influence is also seen in the way he bridged the gap between professional football and everyday life, embodying the spirit of the working-class athlete.

## Notable For
- **Loyalty to Preston North End**: Played his entire professional career (1946–1963) for the club.
- **Nickname**: Known as "The Preston Plumber" due to his background in the plumbing trade.
- **International Career**: Represented England in numerous international matches.
- **Honors**: Awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) and knighted as a Knight Bachelor.
- **Legacy**: Remembered as one of England's greatest footballers and a symbol of sportsmanship.

## Body
### Early Life and Background
Tom Finney was born on April 5, 1922, in Preston, England. He grew up in a working-class family and initially worked as a plumber, which later earned him the nickname "The Preston Plumber." His early life was marked by the challenges of World War II, during which he served in the British Army.

### Football Career
Finney's professional football career began in 1946 when he joined Preston North End. He quickly established himself as a key player, known for his technical skill, speed, and ability to score goals. Despite interest from larger clubs, Finney remained loyal to Preston North End throughout his career, playing for the club until his retirement in 1963.

### International Career
Finney also represented England in international matches, showcasing his talent on the global stage. His performances for the national team further cemented his reputation as one of England's greatest footballers.

### Awards and Honors
In recognition of his contributions to football and society, Finney was awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). He was later knighted as a Knight Bachelor, a testament to his impact on the sport and his role as a cultural icon.

### Legacy and Influence
Tom Finney's legacy extends beyond his footballing achievements. His loyalty to Preston North End and his humble demeanor made him a role model for future generations of footballers. His sportsmanship and dedication to the sport continue to inspire athletes and fans alike. Finney's influence is also seen in the way he bridged the gap between professional football and everyday life, embodying the spirit of the working-class athlete.

### Later Life and Death
After retiring from professional football, Finney remained involved in the sport and continued to be a respected figure in the football community. He passed away on February 14, 2014, leaving behind a legacy as one of England's greatest footballers.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps
2. Transfermarkt
3. FBref
4. Library of Congress Control Number
5. Quora