World Cup final 1966: Ramsey selection headache as Hurst stakes starting claim

Goal-getter Greaves has always craved a World Cup final start, as a teenager he maintained that given a a chance in the final, he would hit a hat-trick. Ramsey will hope going with Hurst, which is the likely choice, won’t backfire on the manager that took over in 1963, after claiming the top division title in his second season in charge of Ipswich Town – who netted more than 100 goals.

Hungry Hurst to hit heights?

Hurst only made his international debut this year, but has proven capable at international level. On top of his game winning striker against Juan Carlos Lorenzo’s Argentina, Hurst provided an assist for Bobby Charlton in the semi-final.

If Hurst starts, he will come up against West Germany’s top shot stopper Hans Tolkowski. The 1965 German Player of the Year and last season’s DFB Pokal winner should come into the final with confidence, with the internationally inexperienced Hurst possibly overawed by the occasion.

However, Ramsey have revolutionised the way England play. His Wingless Wonders are devoid of flank players, after he began dropping them in favour of attacking midfielders. The system has proved fruitful thus far and has baffled full backs.

So, Helmut Schon’s full backs, Werder Bremen right back Horst-Dieter Hottges and AC Milan’s left back Karl-Heinz Schnellinger, could be in for a torrid time.

If Ramsey’s plan proves successful, expect goals galore – with Hurst 15/1 to hit an unlikely hat-trick.

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