It took all of 43 years for me to get my 1966 World Cup medal. To finally be recognised as part of the squad was special' Liverpool icon Ian Callaghan on his World Cup wait

"It was unbelievable to be in a squad that won the World Cup and with so many absolutely fantastic players was a joy. Just to be involved in 1966 and win the World Cup was amazing and, even though I only played once at the tournament, it was still one of the highlights of my career."

"It took all of 43 years for me to get my World Cup medal, because it was only the 11 who played in the final that got given them back then. So to finally be recognised for being part of the squad all those years later was special."

Ian Callaghan, a member of the 1966 England World Cup squad, did not receive his winners' medal until 2009. He played once during the tournament and cherished the experience of being part of a talented team. Callaghan expressed joy in forming friendships with teammates and attending reunions. FIFA's ruling in 2009 recognized all squad members, not just the 11 who played in the final. Callaghan's next appearance for England came 11 years later, highlighting a long wait for recognition.

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