England’s iconic figure Sir Geoff Hurst expressed his desire for the current England team to win the World Cup as a tribute to the 1966 squad. Hurst, known for his hat-trick in the 1966 World Cup final, shared his sentiments during an exclusive interview with the Mirror. Emotionally, he acknowledged being the last surviving member of the victorious 1966 team but remained hopeful for England’s success in the upcoming tournament.
During the interview, Hurst proudly displayed a vintage photo from the night of the historic game, featuring himself, his wife, and fellow player Martin Peters. He emphasized his support for the current team, stating that he would be overjoyed if they were victorious, as winning the World Cup had a profound impact on his life.
Addressing the current England squad, Hurst encouraged them to embrace the magnitude of the tournament and strive for success. He stressed the importance of unity and hard work, highlighting the opportunity for the team to create their own legacy. Hurst also reflected on the enduring legacy of the 1966 victory and the emotional connection fans still have with that historic moment.
Furthermore, Hurst discussed the parallels between current manager Thomas Tuchel and 1966 coach Sir Alf Ramsey, noting their emphasis on teamwork over individual brilliance. He commended the team spirit and camaraderie that were crucial to the success of the 1966 squad and expressed his confidence in the current team’s abilities.
Recalling past events, Hurst expressed gratitude to the Mirror for their role in retrieving the 1966 match ball from Germany after it had been missing for three decades. He reminisced about the memorable moments surrounding the retrieval of the ball and playfully mentioned the controversial ‘did-it-cross-the-line’ goal, speculating how modern technology like VAR would have resolved the debate.
In conclusion, Hurst’s reflections on the past and hopes for the future underscored the enduring impact of England’s 1966 World Cup triumph and the ongoing quest for glory in international football.
