LOOKING BACK

DAVID DOCHERTY EXAMINES AN ENGLAND DEFENDER’S ILL-ADVISED DECISION

Before he left: Neil Franklin at Stoke City

IN 1950 Neil Franklin was widely regarded as the best centre-half in the world. A true footballer who liked to use the ball constructively at every opportunity, he was the Virgil van Dijk of his day.
The 28-year-old was an automatic pick for his country. He had played in every international since the war and had represented England on no fewer than 45 occasions, in both official and unofficial matches. His 26 full caps had come in consecutive...