Tom Finney was born in Preston on the 5th April 1922 and made his professional debut at Deepdale in August 1946 at the age of 24. He had made his name in war-time soccer competitions including the FA Cup Final of 1941 against Arsenal. His game had everything. His pace over ten yards was electric, his ball control was phenomenal, and his all-round skill was unmatched. Versatile with both feet, he was also a strong tackler and possessed great power in the air.
He would spend his entire career with Preston North End, playing 473 times for the 'Lambs', and scoring 210 goals. As a consequence, he won far fewer honours than his magnificent talents deserved. A Second Division Championship was the only prize he had to show for a glittering career. Such was his international standing, however, that in 1952, a wealthy Prince and President of Palermo FC tried to sign him for a massive £30,000 plus personal terms that would have made him rich for the rest of his life! Preston simply refused to talk and Tom continued earning just £14 a week. He made his international debut in 1946 and, due to his outstanding versatility – he could play on either wing or as centre forward - he would represent his country in all three positions. In total, he would be capped 76 times by England, play in three World Cups between 1950 and 1958, and score an impressive 30 times.
He was twice crowned Footballer of the Year, in 1954 and in 1957, was awarded an OBE. in 1961, the PFA Special Merit Award in 1979 and, in 1998, was finally given a much deserved knighthood. Thanks to www.givemefootball.com
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