William Nevill Cobbold

William Nevill Cobbold was one of the true greats of football and was described by the Times as “the most individually brilliant dribbler,” other critics called him the “the most famous association forward of all time.”  

Known throughout the game by his nickname ‘Nuts’ Cobbold played for Cambridge University, Old Carthusians and the great Corinthians picking up 9 full England caps. 

On his international debut against Ireland in 1883 Nuts scored twice within the first 19 minutes and scored six international goals in all; his final appearance coming in a 3-2 defeat against Scotland in 1887. 

Whilst with Cambridge Nuts won four varsity matches and won his reputation as an outstanding dribbler with a great turn of speed.   

Cobbold wouldn’t entertain the concept of passing the ball but was amazingly swift with the ball at his feet.  He was also said to have a shot like a “hundred-ton gun.” 

A school teacher by profession Nuts died in 1922 at the age of 60. 

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