Gordon Banks, England's most storied goalkeeper and winner of the 1966 World Cup, has died at age 81. One of the best goalkeepers in the history of the sport, Banks was named FIFA goalkeeper of the year on six separate occasions and was remembered by many for producing one of the world's greatest saves against Pele in the 1970 World Cup .
"Gordon was a fantastic goalkeeper, without doubt one of the best England has ever had," England captain at the 1996 World Cup Sir Bobby Charlton said, according to BBC.
"I was proud to call him a teammate. Obviously we shared that great day in 1966 but it was more than that.
"Even though I was on the pitch and have seen it many times since, I still don't know how he saved that header from Pele."
On June 7, 1970 at the World Cup, England, the reigning champs, fell 1-0 to Brazil in the group stage in a tournament the South American side went on to win. In that game, Banks produced one of the most iconic saves in the history of the sport, making an unbelievable diving stop on Pele:
Once a champion, always a champion 🦁🏆
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) February 12, 2019
We are deeply sorry to hear of the death of @England World Cup winner @thegordonbanks.
He was one of the game's greatest goalkeepers, a provider of stunning World Cup memories & a gentleman.
Our thoughts are with his family & friends. pic.twitter.com/tsD4c71Ixt
Banks spent most of his club career with Leicester City and Stoke City, and he even played in the United States with the Cleveland Stokers in 1967 and the Fort Lauderdale Strikers from 1977-78.
Clubs, national teams and players took to social media on Tuesday to express their condolences and show gratitude towards a legend:
England honors its star
We’re deeply saddened to hear that Gordon Banks, our #WorldCup-winning goalkeeper, has passed away.
— England (@England) February 12, 2019
Our thoughts are with Gordon’s friends, family and supporters at this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/nbzncYBCFA
Harry Kane pays respect
Very sad to hear the news of Gordon Banks passing away. An @England legend, World Cup winner and made one of the best saves ever. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/5G0fmmqB3X
— Harry Kane (@HKane) February 12, 2019
Respect from a rival
A fierce opponent and a good man.
— Germany (@DFB_Team_EN) February 12, 2019
Rest in peace, Gordon Banks 🏴#DieMannschaft pic.twitter.com/lAGgAulKuO
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