posted Apr 27, 2007

As a lifelong toffee, this is a gut-wrenching loss. The story of his family is quite a weepie. I can't that powerful image of orange hair, white boots and tricky skills out my head. An inspiration to a generation of midfielders.

You can read my tribute here...

http://naptime500.blogspot.com

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posted Apr 27, 2007

I remember seeing Alan Ball's first game for Blackpool. Then a number 7 shirt meant outside right and a tangerine number 7 shirt meant Stanley Matthews - but that day at Bloomfield Road it was worn by a 17 year old red-haired kid.
I remember Alan chasing the opposing left back and finishing up wrapped arms and legs around him; I think he was booked.
Soon as inside right he was slipping through defence-splitting passes, sometimes his vision too smart for his team-mates.
Some reports give his links with Everton & Arsenal without mentioning his start at Blackpool - like Emlyn Hughes, Tony Green, Tony Waiters, Gordon West and so many others siphoned off by wealthier clubs.
So long Ballie. At least we've got Scholesie to carry the flag for that wonderful blend of fire, vision and subtlety you brought to the game.

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posted Apr 27, 2007

I too have vivid memnories of Alan Ball at Blackool and at Everton. I saw Alan play at Wolverhampton as a young winger and then had the honour of seeing him and the magnificent Everton trio of Kendall-Ball-Harvey in the ealry 70s before he went to Arsenal. Alan had a really bright footballing brain allied to technical ability that, I think,would certainly have allowed him to make a real impression in the modern game. He was not an artist like Harvey or Jim Baxter but he was tremendously consistent and, with his infectious enthusiasm, had a real influencne on every team he played for.

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posted Apr 27, 2007

I have tolerated football all my married life having hubby and 3 sons addicted. But to Southampton & Portsmouth Alan Ball bridged the gap and has enamoured both sides.My prayers go out to his family who must be so proud to have had such a wonderful father but also such a talented but unassuming man respected and admired by so many.
In The arms of the angels, may he rest peacefully with the knowledge that he has left so many treasured memories, to Family, Friends, colleagues.
One of the few unaffected by his fame and talent, A special person much revered and honoured.
God Bless him and give strength to Jimmy, the girls and all the family.

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posted Apr 27, 2007

May your family and Alans be blessed with comfort. I hate football, but with three sons, football mad I had to watch it and I had such respect for this man without knowing him. I lived Southampton 48 years until 4 years ago.
I beat breast cancer(4 years), sadly Alans wife lost her battle. My husband was tortured, I know Alan is where he wants to be.

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posted Apr 28, 2007

I am not a football fan especially of todays overpaid players, but I had the privilege of meeting Alan Ball at an event where he was speaking. Not only was the speech given witty,passionate and heartfelt so was the man. You warmed to this honest warm passionate man who's love for his family, his team (especially England) and his country shone through. RIP Alan,my life was richer for meeting you. My condolences to his children but they should take pride in that so many feel their grief & loss

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posted Apr 29, 2007

R.I.P Alan Ball

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posted Apr 29, 2007

genius

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posted Apr 29, 2007

An absolute top man, a legend of the game who will be sorely missed.

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posted May 5, 2007

Great article he will indeed be sadly missed.

If you, like me, was moved by his son's narration of "IF" you may well find a visit to the following video link emotionally rewarding:

http://www.aaqa.org/html/poemvid1.htm

A great man and a great player RIP

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