JOHN Connelly admits he is thrilled to finally pick up a belated World Cup winners medal but joked: ‘I’ve only had to wait 43 years.’ The former Burnley and Blackburn Rovers winger, who won 20 international caps, was one of 11 England reserves that did not play in the memorable 4-2 victory over West Germany in 1966.

Before the 1974 World Cup, only players who started in the final received a medal, but FIFA insist they will reward the players who were part of the squad.

It is believed that Connelly will now collect his medal at England’s World Cup qualifier against Andorra on June 10.

“We’ve only had to wait 43 years for this to happen!” said the 70-year-old.

“I really hope it’s true – it would be lovely to get that medal.

"We’ve all just carried on with our lives waiting and hoping that something might happen.

“We’re just hoping that this time it is going to happen.”