This period was also notable for England’s return to the international fold. The hatchet was finally buried on die row with FIFA over payments to amateurs, a dispute going back to 1928. The reconciliation was celebrated with a match between a Great Britain XI and a side representing Europe. Wilf Mannion was the star of the show, hitting a hat-trick, with Tommy Lawton grabbing a brace. Great Britain won the match 6-1.
In May 1947 England went to Lisbon and thrashed Portugal 10-0, debutant Stan Mortensen hitting four goals. In the next 12 months there were wins over Belgium and Sweden, and a dazzling 4-0 victory over Italy in Turin. Such results no doubt suggested to some that England were
Ready to reassume their position as world-beaters. The 1950s would disabuse the optimists of any such feelings.
England make their World Cup debut
Throughout the 1950s, when he was well into his 30s, Stanley Matthews remained a regular in the international side. In 1950 he got his chance to grace a World Cup, along with stars such as Mannion, Mortensen,
Milburn, Wright and Finney. FIFA declared that the home international championship would constitute a qualifying group for the tournament, which was staged in Brazil.
England won, and Scotland also earned a place as runners-up. The Scots declined, however, one of a number of withdrawals. Other notable absentees included Hungary, Austria, Germany, France and Russia. Just 13 teams took part in the competition, and England were installed as joint-favourites.
World History
