Peter Shilton showed great promise as a goalkeeper from an early age. He replaced World Cup winner 'Gordon Banks 's "Hand of God" goal in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final, when the short Argentinian managed to jump high and punch the ball past Shilton and into the net. And then, in the 1990 World Cup, more questions were asked of 40-year-old Shilton when, in the semi-final against West Germany, England went behind to a deflected free-kick that sailed over Shilton's head. Also, in the penalty shootout that ensued, Shilton decided to wait for every West German penalty to be struck before reacting to them. After England lost the shootout, some suggested that, had he speculated, he would have stood a better chance of making a save. These criticisms, however, should not be allowed to obscure the fact that he was widely accepted as one of world football's most outstanding goalkeepers for many years. The 1990 World Cup marked the end of a very long England career in which he had accumulated 125 caps, more than any other player. He was awarded an MBE in 1986 and an OBE in 1991. He was, without question, a dedicated professional who was appreciated by the many coaches he played for and the many players who relied on him as the last line of defence. Many young goalkeepers still name him as an inspiration.
Is Englands most capped player, winning 125 caps as goalkeeper from 1970 to 1990.
Played for Leicester City (1966-1974), Stoke City (1974-1977), Nottingham Forest (1977-1982), Southampton (1982-1987), Derby County (1987-1992), Plymouth Argyle (1992-1995) (player/manager), Wimbledon , Bolton Wanderers , Coventry City (1995-1996), West Ham United , and Leyton Orient (1996-1997).
His son, Sam, also became a professional footballer, playing as a midfielder/defender and made over 100 appearances for Hinckley United.
Astonishingly continued his playing career up until the age of 47, Shiltons 1,000th Football League game being the match between Leyton Orient and Brighton & Hove Albion in December 1996. He played his 1,005th and final match in January 1997.
Became Bolton Wanderers oldest ever player when he appeared in their play-off semi final defeat against Wolverhampton Wanderers in May 1995 at the age of 46.
He was awarded the MBE in the 1986 Queens Birthday Honours List and awarded the OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in the 1991 Queens Honours List for his services to Association Football.
There are similarities between business and sport, in the pressures involved and in the fitness aspect too. .
