DAILY MAIL 🔵 Marvin Hinton dead at 85: Chelsea pay emotional tribute to legendary defender who was part of England’s provisional 1966 World Cup squad

Legendary Chelsea defender Marvin Hinton has died aged 85.

Hinton made 344 appearances for the Blues and won three trophies between 1963 and 1976 after joining from Charlton. He had a short spell at Barnet in non-league after leaving Stamford Bridge before retiring. 

The crowning moment of his career was winning the FA Cup in 1970 – the first in Chelsea’s history – while he also earned a medal for the 1965 League Cup and 1971 Cup Winners’ Cup final. 

He was also in Alf Ramsay’s provisional squad for the 1966 World Cup, which England won, though he did not make the final selection.  

A statement from Chelsea said: ‘It is with tremendous sadness that Chelsea Football Club announces the passing yesterday of Marvin Hinton, a cultured defender and trophy-winner for the club in the 1960s and 1970s. 

‘He was 85. We send our deepest condolences to Marvin’s family and friends at this difficult time.’

Hinton’s senior career began in 1957 when he joined second-tier club Charlton Athletic, in favour of his local side Crystal Palace.

Chelsea were in the top flight for the vast majority of his career in west London. 

One fan said on X: ‘A true Chelsea legend. Sending strength to his family and everyone at the club. Rest in peace Marvin.’

Another said: ‘One of the best left-backs in football history, rest In peace legend.’

One commented: ‘Goodnight champ. Blue reigns in your blood.’

Another wrote: ‘Rest in peace legend.’ 

As Chelsea note on their website, Hinton was described by manager Tommy Docherty as ‘just the man we need’ as he signed following their promotion back to the top flight.

Back in those days, the fees weren’t quite so exorbitant – he cost £30,000. Adjusted for inflation, that would be around £553,000 in today’s money, according to the Bank of England. 

Known as ‘Suave Marv’, he is described as a defender comfortable in possession who reckoned he would have been a good fit for the modern game. 

He started both legs of the 1965 League Cup final, came off the bench in the 1970 FA Cup final and its replay, and scored a goal on the way to the 1971 Cup Winners’ Cup triumph, though he did not feature in the final. 

Hinton never earned that coveted cap for England, back in an era where they were even more difficult to attain, though he did turn out for the under-23s. 

More to follow.