One of the most elusive wingers English football produced in the 1980s — Chris Waddle's shuffling, unpredictable style of dribbling was almost impossible to defend because it appeared to follow no pattern that could be anticipated. His years at Marseille, where he won three consecutive French league titles and reached the 1991 European Cup final, represent the finest sustained period by an English player in European club football before the Premier League era. The penalty he missed against West Germany in the 1990 World Cup semi-final overshadowed a tournament performance that was genuinely world-class, and his subsequent broadcasting career has made him one of English football's most respected analytical voices.
Christopher Roland Waddle was born in Hepworth, West Yorkshire in 1960. He developed at Newcastle United before Tottenham signed him in 1985. His three seasons at Spurs produced 42 goals in 138 appearances before Marseille paid £4.5 million in 1989 — the fourth-highest transfer in history at the time. His three years in France were the finest of his career — he won three consecutive Division 1 titles (1990, 1991, 1992) and reached the European Cup final, being named the French league's best player. He returned to England with Sheffield Wednesday (1992–96). He earned 62 England caps, scoring 6 goals. His missed penalty in the 1990 World Cup semi-final shootout against Germany is one of English football's most painful moments. His dribbling ability — running at defenders with a deceptive, unpredictable style — and his creative intelligence made him one of the most technically gifted English wingers of his era. He later worked as a commentator and pundit.
Ligue 1 3x (Marseille)
He was voted the best player outside England and Italy in the late 1980s — yet played most of his career in the Second Division.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- Ligue 1 3x (Marseille)
- French Footballer of Year 2x
- 62 England caps