Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) has today paid tribute to Joe Marston following the passing of the Australian football legend yesterday.
Speaking ahead of the PFA’s Annual General Meeting, where players will observe a minutes silence in honour of Marston, PFA Chief Executive Adam Vivian said the 37 times capped Socceroo was an icon of the game.
“On behalf of all our members I would like to express our deepest condolences to the Marston family,” Vivian said.
“Joe pioneered the international career path for Australians and was without doubt one of the country’s greatest ever players.
“He enjoyed a truly remarkable career, which included making over 180 appearances for then English powerhouse Preston North End and leading the club to the FA Cup Final in 1954.
“In the process Joe inspired thousands of young Australian footballers who were desperate to follow in his footsteps and to emulate his success.
Having been awarded the players’ highest honour in 2008 alongside the late Johnny Warren – the PFA Alex Tobin OAM Medal – PFA President Matt McKay said Marston’s impact on the game was immeasurable.
“Joe showed Australia what our players could achieve,” said the Socceroo. “He did what many saw as impossible at the time, and Australian players have been chasing that dream ever since.
“He will forever be regarded as one of Australia’s greatest ever players and a true legend of the game.”
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Beau Busch | Media and Communications Manager
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E: beau @pfa.net.au
