England 1966 legend Terry Paine, one of only three survivors from the World Cup-winning squad, has recalled his win bonus and expressed his desire to see the Three Lions lift the trophy again 60 years later. The former winger, now 87, believes the current England team has a "fighting chance" in the 2026 tournament.
A Glorious Past
Paine, who played in the very first game of the 1966 tournament, will be cheering from his home in South Africa. He, along with Sir Geoff Hurst and Ian Callaghan, are the only surviving members of that historic squad. Paine spent his £1,000 win bonus on a racehorse named Tornado, which he described as "more of a gentle breeze" when it came to winning races.
Reflecting on his earnings, Paine said: "I made my debut for Southampton at 17, earning £20 a week during the season and £17 in the summer, with a £4 bonus for a win and £2 for a draw. My dad worked for British Rail, taking home £3.50 for a tough 40-hour week, so I was earning six times as much as a teenager."
Hopes for 2026
Paine is optimistic about England's chances in 2026. "There is nothing more I would love than to see another England team win it. A 60-year wait, but come on boys, you can do it!" he said. He praised Harry Kane as one of the world's best goalscorers and noted the team's sharpness in their warm-up match against Costa Rica.
However, Paine expressed a desire for an English manager, stating: "I firmly believe a national team should be managed by someone from that nation. I have nothing against Thomas Tuchel, but it just feels right to have an English manager."
Memories and Views
Paine played 19 times for England between 1963 and 1966, scoring seven goals, and made a record 713 appearances for Southampton, scoring 160 goals. He was awarded his World Cup winners' medal in 2009, after a campaign to recognize all squad members. He also commented on the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams, saying it dilutes the competition and leads to defensive tactics.
Paine, who now enjoys playing golf twice a week, concluded: "I have had a great life out of football. But now it is time to see a new England team win the World Cup. The very best of British luck to each and every one of them."
