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Alan Ball Jr.English footballer.
Date of Birth: 12.05.1945
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- International Breakthrough
- Everton and Arsenal
- Injury and Return
- North American Soccer League and Return to Blackpool
- Conclusion of Playing Career
- Coaching Career
- Southampton, Manchester City, and Retirement
- Tragic Death
Early Life and Career
Alan Ball was born into a family of football coaches. However, his small stature initially hindered his entry into professional football. With the help of his father, he joined Blackpool FC as a youngster.
International Breakthrough
In 1965, Ball made his England debut against Yugoslavia in Belgrade, impressing manager Alf Ramsey. He was included in the 1966 World Cup squad and played a crucial role in two key goals in the final match against Germany.
Everton and Arsenal
Ball's performance at the World Cup earned him a move to Everton FC for a record £110,000. He formed a formidable midfield trio with Colin Harvey and Howard Kendall, helping Everton win the First Division title in 1970 and reach the FA Cup final. In 1971, he moved to Arsenal FC for a fee of £200,000, becoming the club captain.
Injury and Return
In 1975, Ball suffered a serious injury that sidelined him. He helped Arsenal avoid relegation in 1976 before joining Southampton FC. His time at Southampton was one of the most successful periods of his career.
North American Soccer League and Return to Blackpool
In 1978, Ball followed the path of other famous players and joined the North American Soccer League. He played for the Philadelphia Fuzz and Vancouver Whitecaps FC. In 1980, he returned to Blackpool FC as a player-manager but left the club a year later.
Conclusion of Playing Career
Ball returned to Southampton FC, then played in Hong Kong before finishing his career at Bristol Rovers FC.
Coaching Career
In 1984, Ball became manager of Portsmouth FC and guided them to promotion to the top flight in 1987. He later managed Stoke City FC and Exeter City FC.
Southampton, Manchester City, and Retirement
In 1994, Ball led Southampton FC to a respectable 10th place finish in the Premier League. However, his tenure at Manchester City FC ended in relegation, prompting him to step away from coaching. He returned briefly to Portsmouth FC in 1998 before retiring from management and becoming a radio and television commentator.
Tragic Death
On April 25, Ball suffered a heart attack while attempting to extinguish a fire in his garden. His death shocked the football community, with countless letters of condolences sent to Everton FC's home ground, Goodison Park. A minute of silence was observed before Premier League matches in his honor.
