Biography
Who is Geoff Hurst?
Early life and background
Geoff Hurst was born on December 8, 1941, in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, United Kingdom. He grew up with two younger siblings, Diane and Robert. When he was six years old, the family moved to Chelmsford in Essex.
His father, Charlie Hurst, was a professional football player who played centre-half for clubs such as Bristol Rovers, Oldham Athletic, and Rochdale. His mother, Evelyn Hopkins, hailed from a family in Gloucestershire with German heritage. As a teenager, Geoff was deeply focused on football. He once received a one-pound fine for disturbing the peace after repeatedly kicking a ball into his neighbor's garden.
West Ham United career
Geoff began his professional association football path by apprenticing with West Ham United at age 15. In December 1958, manager Ted Fenton selected him for a senior match against Fulham in the Southern Floodlit Cup. He turned professional four months later, receiving seven pounds a week and a twenty-pound signing fee. His competitive debut occurred in February 1960.
Under manager Ron Greenwood, who took charge in 1961, Geoff transitioned from midfield to a striker position in 1962. This move proved successful, as he formed a strong partnership with Johnny Byrne. During the 1963-64 season, West Ham enjoyed significant success in the FA Cup. They defeated Preston North End 3-2 at Wembley in the final, with Geoff scoring the second equalizer.
International and later career
Geoff's most famous international moment occurred during the 1966 World Cup final at Wembley Stadium. England played West Germany, and he scored three goals to secure a 4-2 victory, becoming the first player to achieve a hat-trick in a World Cup final. In total, he made 49 appearances for England and scored 24 goals. He also appeared at UEFA Euro 1968 and the 1970 FIFA World Cup.
After leaving West Ham, he played for Stoke City starting in August 1972 for a fee of 80,000 pounds. While there, he spent time on loan at Cape Town City in South Africa. He later played for West Bromwich Albion, Cork Celtic, and the Seattle Sounders. Following his playing career, he moved into management, especially coaching Telford United, Chelsea, and Kuwait SC. He was later knighted for his services to football.
Birthday and age
Geoff Hurst was born on December 8, 1941, which makes Geoff 84 years old today. That birthday falls under the Sagittarius sign. Geoff shares the date with 26 other famous people.
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