Alan Mullery holds a unique place in football history, remembered not just for his talent, but for his infamous red card as the first England player to be sent off in an international match.
A Moment That Defined Mullery's Career
Despite an illustrious career spanning over 700 games for club and country, Mullery's name is often associated with that fateful day in 1968. In a heated Euro 1968 semi-final against Yugoslavia, tensions boiled over for Mullery, forever tying him to English football trivia.
"I was incredibly proud to have played 35 times for England. But this match remains unforgettable for all the wrong reasons," Mullery recalls.
The Controversial Clash with Yugoslavia
The match was marred by the aggressive play of Yugoslavia, with the Spanish referee, Jose Maria Oritz de Mendibil, often turning a blind eye to their antics. Dragging Dzajic put Yugoslavia ahead in the 86th minute, further frustrating the English side. A minute from the end, Dobrivoje Trivic's dirty play pushed Mullery over the edge, leading to his historical red card.
"Despite being kicked and targeted the whole game, the referee only noticed my reaction. It was a match that became a joke due to the lack of proper officiating," Mullery laments.
Historical Context and Modern Reflection
Since Mullery's red card, another 19 England players have faced similar fate, but his remains the most memorable. Reflecting on the era, Mullery remarks how modern scrutiny would have exposed Yugoslavia's unfair tactics.
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