Introduction
Chris Waddle is considered one of the most talented wide midfielders in the whole history of English football. His ability to create opportunities for his teammates, along with amazing technical skills and left-footedness, made Chris Waddle an outstanding representative of his generation. Besides, Chris Waddle was a creative midfielder who was able not only to create goal opportunities but also to score himself. Chris Waddle is often referred to as one of the best wingers who represented England in the second part of the twentieth century.
Career highlights
Having been born on 14 December 1960, Chris Waddle spent his childhood in the northern part of England and began his professional career at Newcastle United after some periods spent in non-league clubs. Having shown himself as an attacker who could beat defenders and provide accurate crosses, Chris Waddle became a very popular player in wide midfield and got a great opportunity to move to Tottenham Hotspur in 1985.
At the North London club, Chris Waddle became one of the most exciting players, who could demonstrate his flair and end product. Chris Waddle always managed to beat his marker and provide accurate assists for his attacking partners. Tottenham Hotspur gave Waddle a great platform, which allowed him to prove that he was an outstanding talent, rather than just a winger.
Marseille and England
Nevertheless, Chris Waddle's career took a significant turn when he chose to play for Olympique de Marseille in 1989. Such a switch from an English club to a French club was unusual for stars like Chris Waddle; however, this experience proved to be fruitful for him. Waddle helped Marseille to win domestic competitions, beating all opponents. Moreover, Waddle gained valuable experience of participating in European competitions, since Olympique de Marseille was one of the strongest clubs during the period.
His career at the French club is considered to be the most valuable for Waddle, since it demonstrated his versatility. Chris Waddle was able to demonstrate his skills as a wide midfielder and creative attacking midfielder, who could build up attacks.
International career
Chris Waddle joined the England national team in 1985 and stayed as one of its key players until the mid-1990s. Waddle took part in several major tournaments, including the 1990 World Cup. Chris Waddle helped England reach the semifinal stage of the competition. Waddle's missed penalty shot against West Germany during the penalty shootout remains the most memorable episode of this event.
Career at Sheffield Wednesday and afterwards
At the same time, Chris Waddle came back to England and joined Sheffield Wednesday in 1992. Waddle stayed as one of the main stars of the team until the end of his career. Although Chris Waddle's playing period entered its last phase, the winger was still able to demonstrate his main qualities, including clever passing and great dead-ball skills. Chris Waddle was an important member of the cup-winning campaign conducted by Sheffield Wednesday in 1993; the team reached the finals of both the League Cup and the FA Cup.