Former Scotland and Chelsea footballer Eddie McCreadie, hailed by Tommy Docherty as the best left-back in Europe, has passed away at the age of 85. McCreadie also managed Chelsea, leaving an enduring legacy as both a player and coach.

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Early Life and Scottish Beginnings

Born in Cowcaddens, Glasgow, McCreadie began his football journey with East Stirlingshire after being overlooked by scouts at local club Partick Thistle. His talent caught the eye of Chelsea manager Tommy Docherty, who signed him for just £5,000—a deal that controversially included two friendly matches against East Stirlingshire, one of which was never played.

From the Scottish Second Division, McCreadie quickly rose to prominence, earning 23 caps for Scotland, including a memorable 3-2 victory over England at Wembley a year after the hosts had won the World Cup.

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Chelsea Playing Career

McCreadie made 410 appearances for Chelsea, contributing to some of the club’s most historic moments:

• 1965 League Cup Final: Scored Chelsea’s winning goal against Leicester City, standing in as an emergency centre-forward and running nearly the full length of the pitch before beating England goalkeeper Gordon Banks.
• 1970 FA Cup: Helped Chelsea lift the trophy after a dramatic replay against Leeds United in extra time, famously performing a kung-fu style flying tackle on Billy Bremner, watched by an estimated 28 million viewers.
• 1971 European Cup Winners’ Cup: Missed the final against Real Madrid due to injury, though part of the squad during Chelsea’s European success.

Docherty praised McCreadie for his combative and attacking style, which foreshadowed the modern wing-back role, making him a standout player of his generation.

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Managerial Career at Chelsea

After retiring from playing, McCreadie joined Chelsea’s coaching staff in 1974 as the club struggled in the league. He succeeded Ron Suart as manager in April 1975. Despite being unable to prevent relegation, McCreadie:

• Rebuilt the squad around 18-year-old Ray Wilkins
• Guided Chelsea back to the First Division in 1977

However, McCreadie departed before the start of the new season after a disagreement with chairman Brian Mears, reportedly over a company car, highlighting his outspoken and principled nature.

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Later Career and Retirement

Following his Chelsea tenure, McCreadie took his coaching expertise to the United States, working with North American Soccer League sides including the Memphis Rogues and Cleveland Force. He finally retired from professional football in 1985, leaving a legacy that spanned both playing and coaching at the highest levels.

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Legacy and Impact

Eddie McCreadie is remembered as:

• A Chelsea legend, with over 400 appearances and key goals in domestic and European competitions
• A Scotland international, part of a memorable era including the iconic Wembley victory over England
• An innovative left-back, whose attacking style inspired future generations and mirrored today’s wing-back role
• A manager and mentor, shaping the careers of players like Ray Wilkins and rebuilding Chelsea during challenging times

McCreadie’s contributions to football, both in the UK and internationally, remain celebrated by fans, former teammates, and the broader footballing community.