THEN & NOW PICCADILLY STATION

Welcome to Then and Now, where each week we compare images of Manchester streets, landmarks and buildings from bygone days with how they look today

OUR main image this week shows Portuguese soccer legend Eusebio sitting alone at Manchester Piccadilly Station in July 1966 after his country’s exit from the World Cup. Portugal were knocked out at the semi-final stage by eventual winners England. The score was 2-1.

Eusebio was brilliantly marked by tenacious United midfielder Nobby Stiles while club team-mate Bobby Charlton scored both of England’s goals.

Eusebio had become a familiar figure in Manchester as Portugal played all their group matches in the North West, including two at Old Trafford. They beat Hungary 3-1 in front of a crowd of 31,000 and Bulgaria 3-0. There was a slight diversion at the Hungary match when Portuguese player Morays rescued an injured thrush that had fluttered on to the pitch!

Portugal also defeated Brazil 3-1 at Goodison Park in the group stage with

Eusebio netting twice. They then overcame North Korea 5-3 in the quarter-final. This time Eusebio scored four! The Portuguese forward at least had the consolation of ending the tournament as the top scorer with nine goals.

Eusebio appears to be taking little comfort from the achievement back at the station – with autograph hunters waiting at a respectful distance.

Surrounded by kit bags and, of course, an umbrella in case of Manchester rain, Eusebio looks lost in thought.

There are no fans – and hardly any commuters - in our modern photo of Manchester Piccadilly in the Covid lockdown.

● Many more images from Then and Now are featured in The Changing Face of Manchester published to mark the 150th anniversary of the M.E.N. It’s on sale at £14.99 including postage and packing. Order your copy online at inostalgia.co.uk or ring the order hotline on 01928 503777.