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Eastham played a big part in changing the British transfer system George Eastham, a member of England's 1966 World Cup-winning squad, has died aged 88. The Blackpool-born forward made 19 international appearances and, while he was part of manager Sir Alf Ramsey's squad at the World Cup 58 years ago, he did not play as England won it for the only time in their history. He was also an unused squad member at the 1962 World Cup and went on to make his England debut in an FA Centenary match against Brazil at Wembley in 1963. His last appearance was in 2-0 friendly win over Denmark before the 1966 World Cup. Only the 11 players that started the final against West Germany in 1966 were initially awarded winners' medals but, following a campaign, Eastham and other squad members - and Ramsey - received medals in 2009. The Football Association said it was "saddened" by Eastham's passing and "our condolences go to George's family and friends". Eastham played for Newcastle United and Arsenal before joining Stoke for £35, 000 shortly after the 1966 World Cup. He played 194 times for the Potters and scored the winner for them in the 1972 League Cup final when they beat Chelsea 2-1 at Wembley. Eastham was also involved in a 1963 court case, external which improved players' freedom to move between clubs in a major reforming of the British transfer market and he was awarded an OBE for his services to football in 1973. He retired from playing in 1974 and then had a stint as Stoke manager from March 1977 to January 1978. Stoke said, external they were "immensely saddened by the passing of club legend" Eastham and would wear black armbands for their game at Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday (12: 30 GMT). They also plan to pay tribute to Eastham at their home game against Leeds United on 26 December. "Our thoughts are with George's family and friends at this difficult time, " the club added. Listen to the latest Football Daily podcast Get football news sent straight to your phone Fully clothed Fury four stone heavier than Usyk Man City's Dias ruled out for 'three or four weeks' Usyk v Fury 2 - big-fight predictions Howard Marks: Britain’s most notorious drug smuggler The man behind the criminal moniker ‘Mr Nice’ The Buddhist monk who gave his life in protest Sister Chan Khong witnessed Thich Quang Duc's ultimate sacrifice and recalls the distressing event A duchess's public divorce which gripped the country Claire Foy and Paul Bettany star in a drama of secrets and suspicion, based on a true story Victoria Wood's never-before-broadcast treasures Her biographer, Jasper Rees, has been given unique access to the comedian's own private archive 'Ugly rabbit' v 'Greedy belly' - Usyk & Fury's epic rivalry From gym to SPOTY red carpet - behind the scenes with Hodgkinson. Video From gym to SPOTY red carpet - behind the scenes with Hodgkinson Four key areas for Everton's new owners to address Why Rashford is 'lightning rod for criticism' Hewitt, Borg and others following their tennis parents Live your life, people will talk regardless - Saka. Video Live your life, people will talk regardless - Saka Hodgkinson wins Sports Personality of the Year 2024 Mentality, Paris effect & Malta sun - inside Fury's revenge bid Slot the difference - Liverpool's tactical tweaks under new boss 'He has rebuilt Arsenal' - now Arteta must clear 'hardest hurdle' How misfit Cavendish changed the face of cycling Everything you need to know about Euro 2025 Usyk v Fury 2 - all you need to know 'The award goes to. .. ' - England Test team's year in gongs Voyce - a wing who took flight with Wasps The best pictures from the 2024 F1 season Six countries, two hemispheres - how will 2030 World Cup work? Why Raducanu is giving herself a 'pat on the back' for 2024 © 2024 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.