SIR STANLEY MATTHEWS, ENGLAND
Stoke City, Blackpool
1933-57

A an often-under appreciated but offensively devastating player, Stanley Matthews was known for his fast feet, precise dribbling skills, and pinpoint passing that left opposing fullbacks wondering what had just passed them. Known as the "Wizard of Dribble", his skills were so great that it prolonged his career beyond the usual footballer and spanned 3 decades. He ruled the 30s and 40s as the greatest outside right in the world. Knighted for contributions to the game, his crowning achievements were leading Blackpool 1953 to the FA Cup in what was known as "Matthews Final", and being named the first European Footballer of the year in 1956.