Cliff Jones, a legendary figure in Welsh football, has been awarded an MBE at the age of 91. Jones is celebrated for his impressive contributions to both club football and the national team. He played a key role in the history of clubs like Swansea City and Tottenham Hotspur during his illustrious career.
Cliff Jones: A Football Icon
Born into a footballing family, Jones followed in the footsteps of his father, Ivor, and uncle, Bryn, both of whom represented Wales on the international stage. His uncle notably transferred from Wolverhampton Wanderers to Arsenal in 1938 for a then-world record fee of £14,500.
Career Highlights
Jones began his professional journey with Swansea City in 1952, where he made 193 appearances and netted 54 goals. In 1958, he made a significant move to Tottenham Hotspur for £35,000.
- Years Active: 1952 to 1970
- Total Club Matches: 580
- Goals for Spurs: 159 in 378 games
His tenure at Spurs solidified his status as one of the greatest players in the club’s history. After leaving White Hart Lane in 1968, Jones concluded his playing career at Fulham.
Acknowledgment and Tributes
In 2013, Jones was inducted into the National Football Hall of Fame, and later that year, he received a lifetime achievement award at the Sport Wales awards. His remarkable contributions to the game continue to be recognized.
Tottenham defender Ben Davies paid tribute, stating, “It is fantastic Cliff Jones is being recognised for his incredible contribution to both club and international football.” Davies emphasized the deep connection he formed with Jones, highlighting the wisdom he shared through captivating stories of his life and football career.
Other Recognition in Welsh Sports
Jones is not the only figure to receive honors recently. Roger Lewis, former chief executive of the Welsh Rugby Union from 2006 to 2015, has also been made an MBE. His award recognizes his voluntary services to service personnel and veterans as chair of the Churchill Lines Foundation.
In addition, Tom Hooper from Newport, who serves as the Bristol Metropolitan head of sport, was appointed an MBE for his services to education. Cardiff City director Steve Borley received an OBE for his significant contributions to the Welsh economy across various sectors, including engineering and sports participation.
These commendations reflect a commitment to excellence within Welsh sports, showcasing the achievements of individuals like Jones and their positive impact on their communities.
