IVOR ALLCHURCH

INSIDE FORWARD CAPS 68 1950-1966 GOALS 23

A REAL golden star of Welsh football back in the day, he has been dubbed the greatest Swansea payer in history.

A masterful inside forward, he was part of the World Cup team in 1958 and his goal record, one in three, was more than commendable.

He scored in the play-off versus Israel to ensure Wales could get to Sweden.

The Gareth Bale of his time, you might say.

Followed that up with goals in the 1-1 draw with Mexico and the 2-1 win over Hungary which took Wales through the group stages and into a quarter-final showdown with Pele’s Brazil. It was said Ivor could easily have fitted into any team in the tournament, including the eventual World Cup winning Brazilians.

Became Wales’ most capped player when he played his 50th match, a game against Scotland. Went on to represent his country 68 times, a record that stood until Joey Jones took it almost 20 years on.

His 23 goals was also a record at the time, until it was beaten by Ian Rush.

Had two spells with home club Swansea Town, also featuring many times for Cardiff City and Newcastle United.

Twice named BBC Wales Sports Personality of the Year, in 1962 and 1966, he worked as a storeman for a stationery company upon his retirement.