aston_john_jnr
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| Name: John Aston Jnr |
Nationality: England |
| Position: Forward |
Signing Information: Signed Trainee: 12/06/1963. Signed Professional: 02/07/1964 |
| Birthdate: 28-06-1947 |
Years at Club: 1964-1972 |
| Age: (77) |
Debut: 12/04/1965 v Leicester City 1-1 (H) (League Division One) |
| Birthplace: Clayton, Manchester, England |
Previous clubs: |
| Height: 5' 9" (1.75m) |
Farewell to Manchester United: Transferred to Luton Town, 12/07/1972, £30,000 |
| Weight: 10st 12lbs (68.95kg) |
Passed Away: |
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| John Aston Jr. is a former English footballer best known for his time as a left-winger for Manchester United and for his Man of the Match performance in United’s 1968 European Cup final victory. The son of former Manchester United defender John Aston Sr., Aston Jr. carved out his own successful career at Old Trafford during the 1960s and 1970s. He was part of Sir Matt Busby’s legendary side that became the first English team to win the European Cup.
Early Career and Development at Manchester United
Born in Manchester, Aston Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps by joining Manchester United’s youth academy. He developed as a talented winger with excellent pace, dribbling ability, and crossing skills. Aston made his senior debut for Manchester United in 1965, becoming a key part of the team’s attacking setup over the next several years.
Aston Jr. played alongside United legends like George Best, Denis Law, and Bobby Charlton, which helped shape his game and establish him as a creative force on the wing.
European Cup Triumph in 1968
The defining moment of John Aston Jr.’s career came in 1968 when Manchester United won the European Cup for the first time in the club’s history. Aston was one of the standout players in United’s 4-1 victory over Benfica in the final, held at Wembley Stadium.
Key Achievements in the 1968 European Cup Final:
Man of the Match: Aston’s performance in the 1968 European Cup final earned him widespread praise. His dribbling, attacking play, and ability to stretch Benfica’s defense were instrumental in United’s triumph. Aston assisted in setting up key plays and was a constant threat on the left flank throughout the match.
First English Club to Win the European Cup: The victory made Manchester United the first English club to win the European Cup, a historic achievement for both the club and English football. Aston’s contribution was crucial to this success, and his Man of the Match performance solidified his place in United’s history.
Career at Manchester United (1965–1972)
Over the course of his time at Manchester United, Aston made 187 appearances for the club, scoring 27 goals. While his most iconic moment came in the 1968 European Cup final, he also contributed to United’s domestic campaigns in the First Division. Known for his quick feet, accurate crossing, and ability to take on defenders, Aston was a reliable and dangerous attacking option on the left wing.
Move to Luton Town and Later Career
In 1972, after seven successful seasons at Old Trafford, Aston left Manchester United to join Luton Town, where he continued to showcase his talents. He spent three seasons at Luton, making over 70 appearances for the club.
Aston later had a brief stint at Mansfield Town before retiring from professional football in 1977.
Playing Style: Fast and Skillful Winger
Aston Jr. was known for his pace, close control, and ability to beat defenders one-on-one. As a left-winger, his primary role was to stretch defenses and provide dangerous crosses for United’s forwards, but he also had a keen eye for goal. His direct dribbling style and willingness to take on defenders made him a key part of United’s attacking play during his time at the club.
Legacy
John Aston Jr. will always be remembered for his incredible performance in the 1968 European Cup final, a match that secured Manchester United’s place in football history. His Man of the Match display and contributions to the team during the late 1960s make him a beloved figure among United fans. Aston’s role in Sir Matt Busby’s team, alongside the likes of George Best and Bobby Charlton, highlights his place in one of the most iconic eras in the club’s history.
Post-Retirement Life
After retiring from football, Aston moved away from the spotlight, though he remained connected to Manchester United and occasionally participated in club events. His contribution to United’s European success continues to be celebrated by fans and football historians.
Summary
John Aston Jr. is a former Manchester United winger best known for his Man of the Match performance in the 1968 European Cup final, where United defeated Benfica to become the first English club to win the prestigious trophy. Over his career, Aston made 187 appearances for United and was a key figure in the club’s success during the 1960s. His skill, pace, and attacking flair earned him a lasting place in Manchester United’s history. |
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| League |
League Cup |
FA Cup |
Charity Shield |
European Cup |
Europa League |
Super Cup |
Cup Winners Cup |
Inter-Continental Cup |
World Clubs Cup |
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| No |
Season |
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Season
Goals |
Season
Apps |
| 1 |
1964-1965 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
| 2 |
1965-1966 |
4 |
23 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
28 |
| 3 |
1966-1967 |
5 |
30 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 |
31 |
| 4 |
1967-1968 |
10 |
37 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
6 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
11 |
46 |
| 5 |
1968-1969 |
2 |
13 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
13 |
| 6 |
1969-1970 |
1 |
22 |
0 |
6 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
30 |
| 7 |
1970-1971 |
3 |
20 |
0 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
24 |
| 8 |
1971-1972 |
0 |
9 |
0 |
4 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
14 |
| TOTALS |
25 |
155 |
0 |
15 |
1 |
7 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
8 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
27 |
187 |
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