The inside forward or midfielder played 194 games for the Potters, when Stoke City plays Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship this afternoon, the players will be wearing black armbands.
George also earned 19 England caps and played with distinction for Newcastle United and Arsenal. He was a member of the 1966 World Cup winning team and scored two goals for his nation.
“The Stoke City Football Club family is deeply saddened by the passing of club legend George Eastham OBE at the age of 88,” a Stoke City official stated.
George was a member of England’s 1966 World Cup winning team before being acquired by the Potters for £35,000.
“He went on to represent the club for eight seasons in the top division of the English game and was a two-time FA Cup semi-finalist in red and white.
He is perhaps best remembered as the man whose goal secured the 1972 League Cup in a 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Wembley. He made 194 league appearances for Stoke City and was awarded an OBE for his services to football shortly before retiring in 1974.
He later became Tony Waddington’s assistant before taking over as manager of the team in March 1977 and January 1978. Before to the Potteries, Eastham made a consistent 124 league games for Newcastle United and 207 for Arsenal. He also made 19 appearances for his country.
“As a sign of respect, the Potters will don black armbands for the match against Sheffield Wednesday. Information about the club’s Boxing Day homage at the bet365 Stadium will be made public when it becomes available. We are sending our condolences to George’s family and friends during this trying time.
