Ted Drake

Ted Drake, born on August 16, 1912, was a remarkable English football player and manager whose legacy in the sport remains significant. He began his career at Southampton but truly made his mark at Arsenal during the 1930s. At Arsenal, he secured two league titles and an FA Cup, while also earning five caps for the England national team. Drake's prowess on the field established him as one of Arsenal's joint fifth highest goalscorers of all time.

Drake's most notable achievement came in December 1935 when he set a record for the most goals scored in a top-flight game in English football, netting seven against Aston Villa. As a centre forward, he was often described as a classic number nine, characterized by his strength, power, and bravery, embodying the quintessential English footballer.

After hanging up his boots, Drake transitioned into management, most famously taking the helm at Chelsea. In 1955, he led the club to its first league title, making history as the first individual to win the English top-flight both as a player and a manager. In addition to his football career, he also dabbled in cricket, playing sparingly for Hampshire.