The ‘gentle giant’ was equally effective in defence or attack and is widely regarded as one of the finest players of his generation.

Just three months after turning professional with Leeds, he made his debut at centre-half and did not miss a single League game the following season.

On 08 March 1950, Charles became the youngest Welshman to ever represent his country when he played against Northern Ireland at the age of 18 years, 71 days.

Charles was switched to centre-forward with devastating effect, scoring 42 goals in the 1953/54 season.

After temporarily reverting to defence to plug a leaky Leeds defence, Charles was later restored to attack and scored 29 goals in the 1955/56 promotion season.

Charles made the switch to Italy in 1957, joining Juventus for £65,000 - a record fee for a British player.

After five successful years overseas, Charles rejoined Leeds. But he lasted just three months back at Elland Road and returned to Italy, signing for AS Roma.

His appearances for Roma were limited by injuries and a loss of form and he signed for Cardiff.

A move to non-league Hereford followed and after spells as manager at Merthyr Tydfil and youth coach at Swansea, Charles left the game. He died earlier this year at the age of 72.

John Charles Factfile
Nationality: Wales (38 caps, 15 goals)
Date of Birth: 27 December 1931
Place of Birth: Swansea, Wales
Height: 6' 2''
Weight: 14 03 

Year

Club

Apps

Goals

1948/49

Leeds United

3

0

1949/50

Leeds United

42

1

1950/51

Leeds United

34

3

1951/52

Leeds United

18

0

1952/53

Leeds United

40

26

1953/54

Leeds United

39

42

1954/55

Leeds United

40

11

1955/56

Leeds United

41

29

1956/57

Leeds United

40

38

1957/58

Juventus

34

28

1958/59

Juventus

29

19

1959/60

Juventus

34

23

1960/61

Juventus

32

15

1961/62

Juventus

21

8

1962/63

Leeds United

11

3

1962/63

Roma

10

4

1963/64

Cardiff City

33

11

1964/65

Cardiff City

28

3

1965/66

Cardiff City

7

4


Statistics refer to league appearances/goals only