Sheffield Wednesday are saddened to learn of the passing of legendary former club captain Don Megson. The all-time Wednesday great has passed away at the age of 86.
Born on 12 June 1936, Don signed professional forms with the Owls in 1953 and would go on to represent the club until 1970 and became known as one of the finest defenders in our history.
A leader like no other, the left back went on to captain the club at Wembley for the 1966 FA Cup final, where he led his team on an unprecedented lap of honour after our 3-2 defeat against Everton.
Don, father of former Owls player and manager Gary, made his debut in late 1959 against Burnley in a 1-1 draw.
Following his breakthrough in the senior ranks, Don went almost unchallenged for ten seasons, such were his commanding performances, robust tackling, terrific distribution and leadership qualities on the pitch.
He helped Wednesday finish Division One runners-up in 1961, second only to Bill Nicholson’s iconic Spurs side.
This led to the club qualifying for Europe in the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, with Megson playing his part in our 3-2 victory over Barcelona in the first leg of the quarter finals.
The tough tackling defender played his final game for Wednesday in January 1970 against Scunthorpe and was deservingly awarded a testimonial at the beginning of his final campaign in blue and white.
Wednesday faced an international XI in a 7-7 draw in front of 11,000 supporters.
The fans’ favourite left the club having played 442 games, scoring seven goals.
Don joined Bristol Rovers where he played 31 games before hanging up his boots to take the reins as manager of the Gas in July 1972.
The Cheshire-product moved across the pond in November 1977 to manage Portland Timbers before returning to England and later taking the top job at Bournemouth.
After resigning from the Cherries, Don would go on to aid his son Gary's first forays into management as a part-time scout.
Our thoughts to go out to Don’s family and friends at this difficult time.
RIP a true Sheffield Wednesday legend.