Tributes to former England, Blackpool and Burnley goalkeeper Tony Waiters

Tony Waiters played in the North West for Blackpool and Burnley (Getty Images)

Waiters made more than 250 appearances for Blackpool, during which time he won five England caps in 1964 as Alf Ramsey sought back up for Gordon Banks ahead of the World Cup two years later.

The keeper was called up for England’s initial 40-man World Cup-winning squad in 1966 but was left out of the final 22.

He finished his playing career at Burnley in the early 1970s before heading into management at Plymouth, where between 1972 and 1977 he won promotion from the Third Division and led Argyle to the League Cup semi-finals.

Waiters later managed the Vancouver Whitecaps before having two spells as the national coach of Canada.

He was in charge when Canada qualified for the 1986 World Cup, the country’s only appearance in the finals.

A tribute on the England Twitter page read: “We’re sad to learn that Tony Waiters, who won five caps for the #ThreeLions in 1964, has died at the age of 83.

“Our thoughts and sympathies are with Tony’s family, friends and former clubs.”

Paul Hart, of the Argyle Legends former players’ association, posted the following tribute on Facebook.

He said: “The world is a poorer place this morning with the devastating news that the great Tony Waiters has sadly passed away at the age of 83.

“Tony has left a legacy that will be remembered by many across the world. His achievements in football are seconded only by his devotion to his lovely family.

“Our thoughts are with his wife Anne and their two children Scott and Victoria.

“RIP Tony. I am honoured to have met you.”

Blackpool also released a statement upon hearing the news. It read: “Blackpool Football Club is saddened to learn of the passing of former goalkeeper Tony Waiters at the age of 83.

“Born in Southport, Tony joined the Seasiders from Macclesfield Town in 1959 and went on to make more than 250 league appearances for the club.

“Capped five times for England during his time at Bloomfield Road, he later went on to manage Plymouth Argyle, the Vancouver Whitecaps and the Canadian national team.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to Tony’s wife Anne and all the family.”