The football world is in mourning following the death of Colin McDonald, England's oldest living international footballer, at the age of 95. Tributes have poured in from the national side and his beloved former club, Burnley, honouring the legendary goalkeeper's life and career.
A Stellar International Career
Colin McDonald earned the first of his eight England caps in 1958, a year that would define his legacy on the world stage. He was a key figure for the Three Lions during their four matches at the 1958 World Cup in Sweden. His most famous contribution came in a historic group-stage match against Brazil, where he kept a clean sheet in a 0-0 draw.
This result was the first goalless draw in World Cup history, and his commanding performance against the eventual champions led many to hail him as the tournament's outstanding goalkeeper. Such was his impact that he finished a remarkable 11th in the Ballon d'Or standings for that year.
A Burnley Icon and Career Cut Short
Born in Bury, McDonald's club career is synonymous with Burnley. He first signed for the Clarets as an amateur in 1948. After completing his National Service, he turned professional and served the club between 1951 and 1961. Many fans who saw him play consider him the greatest goalkeeper ever to represent Burnley.
The club expressed they were 'deeply saddened' by his passing, noting he was 'more or less ever-present' after cementing his place as the team's number one from 1954 onwards. His career was unfortunately cut short by a broken leg suffered while playing for the Football League against the League of Ireland on St Patrick's Day in 1959. He eventually retired in 1961, though he made a brief appearance for non-league Altrincham in 1965.
Life After Playing and a Lasting Legacy
Following his retirement from playing, McDonald was swiftly appointed as manager of Wycombe Wanderers in 1961. However, he resigned after just 23 days in the role, citing 'domestic reasons', without taking charge of a single match.
Colin McDonald inherited the poignant title of England's oldest living international in June last year, following the death of former defender Tommy Banks at 94. His passing marks the end of an era for English football, closing the chapter on a player whose skill and resilience between the posts left an indelible mark during one of the nation's iconic World Cup campaigns. He is remembered not just as a record-holder, but as a true giant of the game for both club and country.
