Raymond Ernest Wood English footballer Date of Birth: 11.06.1931 Country: Great Britain

1. Early Life and Career
2. Manchester United and the Munich Air Disaster
3. Later Career
4. Personal Life and Legacy

Early Life and Career

Ray Wood, an English footballer and later manager, was born in Newcastle upon Tyne. Despite excelling as a sprinter, Wood opted for a career in football. His amateur journey began with Newcastle United, but he struggled to break into the first team. In 1949, he joined Darlington, where he showcased his exceptional speed.

Manchester United and the Munich Air Disaster

Three months after joining Darlington, Wood moved to Manchester United. His debut came in December 1949 against Newcastle at Old Trafford. In the 1957 FA Cup Final against Aston Villa, Wood suffered a fractured jaw after a collision with Peter McParland. Despite the injury, Wood returned to the field as a forward after receiving medical attention. United lost the match 2-1, but went on to retain their league title.

In December 1957, United acquired Harry Gregg, which relegated Wood to the bench. Nonetheless, Wood survived the tragic Munich Air Disaster on February 6, 1958. Despite minor injuries, he only played one more game for United before being sold to Huddersfield Town later that year.

Later Career

Wood spent seven seasons at Huddersfield, making over 250 appearances. He then had stints with Bradford City and Barnsley before retiring in 1966. After his playing career, Wood became a coach in countries such as the US, Ireland, Zambia, Greece, and Kenya. He managed Cyprus and Kenya's national football teams, as well as the Los Angeles Wolves in the US and APOEL Nicosia in Cyprus.

Personal Life and Legacy

Wood married Elizabeth in the 1950s and had two daughters. Their marriage ended in divorce in the 1970s. Ray Wood passed away in 2002 at the age of 71 in Bexhill-on-Sea.