The England national football team's Ray Wilson retired from football five years after his World Cup heroics in 1966 and took on an unusual career switch as an undertaker. Wilson was a key figure in the Three Lions' legendary World Cup-winning side, lining up at left-back in the historic clash against West Germany at Wembley Stadium. He also featured in all six matches of the tournament, forming a resolute back four alongside George Cohen, Jack Charlton, and Bobby Moore. Upon hanging up his boots in 1971, Wilson embarked on a rather unconventional path for a former professional footballer, joining his father-in-law's business in Huddersfield. He relied on his new venture to provide for his wife, Pat, whom he wed in 1956, and their two sons. Wilson ran the firm right up until his retirement in 1997 and was known to employ dry wit with those closest to him. His England teammate Cohen once disclosed that Wilson told him: 'I was ringing to offer you a deal,' upon discovering his former colleague had been diagnosed with cancer. Born in Shirebrook, Derbyshire, Wilson went on to earn 63 caps for the Three Lions, turning out for Huddersfield Town under Liverpool legend Bill Shankly, as well as Everton, Oldham, and Bradford. Reflecting on England's World Cup triumph, Wilson once told a journalist: 'We were basically a defensive team. That was the first quality of the team.' After short spells at Oldham and Bradford, Wilson and his wife Pat settled back in Huddersfield, where he embarked on a new career as a mortician, learning the trade under his father-in-law's watchful eye. So committed was he to his new vocation that he even went back into education to gain the O-level qualifications the role demanded. In 2000, Wilson was honoured for his part in England's historic World Cup win with an MBE. Sadly, just four years later, he was dealt a devastating blow when he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. He passed away in May 2018 at the age of 83, just two years after Huddersfield paid tribute to him by releasing a new second-change kit in his honour, bearing the fitting tagline 'Legends Are Rarely Made'. Wilson's legacy continues to be celebrated by the England national football team and its fans. The team's World Cup win in 1966 remains a historic moment in English football history. Wilson's career switch to become an undertaker is a dedication to his hard work. He will always be remembered as a true legend of the England national football team. The England national football team's World Cup win in 1966 was a momentous occasion, and Wilson played a key role in the team's success. His contributions to the team will never be forgotten. The team's victory in the World Cup was a result of their hard work and determination, and Wilson was an integral part of that. He will always be remembered as a hero of the England national football team.