Matches

The effect of all these factors was reflected in declining attendances, particularly for struggling clubs or those perceived as unglamorous. As the footballing authorities sought ways to encourage more people through the turnstiles, the one avenue they naturally fought shy of was the televising of matches. In 1960 negotiations between the Football League and the Independent Television Authority fell through over fears that broadcasting a live game might have an adverse effect on attendances. Concerns were not allayed by the proposal to schedule the matches so that they didn’t clash with any other football taking place. Within a couple of years, however, the broadcasting companies persuaded the Football League that a highlights package would not be detrimental to the game, and indeed could help to generate more interest and a wider fan base.

When Match of the Day took to the airwaves in 1964, it quickly became an institution. Television turned the top players into celebrities as well as sportsmen. The authorities’ fears tliat TV would lead to an army of armchair fans proved largely unfounded. However, seeing the likes of Greaves, Charlton and St John in action on the small screen did persuade a considerable number to switch their allegiance or to forge a new one. In short, the glamour clubs flourished at the expense of the rest.

Right: Forwards Johnny Haynes, Bobby Smith and Jimmy Greaves on England duty.

Above:The score changes but the outcome is not in doubt at an exhibition match in May 1961. Commentators attributed England’s recent run of victories to Walter Winterbottom’s newly adopted 4-2-4 formation introduced in the face of current tactics.

Opposite: Jimmy Greaves scores his first league goal for Chelsea against Tottenham Hotspur.