A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE: THE 8 MOST ICONIC ENGLAND SHIRTS

With England making the final of the 2024 Euros in Germany after a thrilling victory over the Netherlands, thanks to a last-minute goal by Ollie Watkins, the anticipation for Sunday's final is palpable. As we prepare for this monumental match, let’s take a look back at the most iconic England shirts of all time. Which one will you be wearing?

Creating an England shirt involves more than just the Three Lions and a mix of white, red, and blue. To make a shirt truly iconic, it needs a timeless design that screams English pride and a history of unforgettable moments that elevate its status. From the legendary Moore to the formidable Kane, these shirts capture the essence of English football. Here are the top eight most iconic England shirts ever:

8. 2002: Away Kit

David Beckham’s redemption from his infamous red card in France to his crucial penalty against Argentina in 2002 defines this shirt. With subtle St. George’s flag details and best worn long sleeve, this red away shirt stands out as one of the best since 1966.

7. 2020: Home Kit

Chosen over the away shirt for its role in England's thrilling Euro 2020 campaign, this kit's design harkens back to the 1986 home shirt with centralised branding and crest. It symbolises one of England’s most exhilarating runs, falling just short of glory.

6. 1990: Third Kit

Technically, this shirt shouldn’t make the list as it wasn’t worn at Italia '90 and featured in only one match against Turkey. However, its 90s design, immortalised by New Order's 'World in Motion,' earns it cult status. It's the embodiment of a nation in that era, making its inclusion a must.

5. 1997: Home Kit

The 1998 World Cup in France introduced the world to a young Michael Owen and witnessed Beckham’s notorious moment of madness. This shirt, with its pin striping, oversized collar, and bold design, encapsulates the highs and lows of that tournament.

4. 2001: Home Kit

Memorable moments like Germany 1-5 England and Beckham's last-minute free-kick against Greece are etched into this shirt's legacy. A return to red accents after Umbro's previous omission makes this design nearly perfect

3. 1996: Home Kit

Euro '96 on home soil felt like football was coming home. This shirt, with its electric blue collar and central crest, represents a new direction in design for Umbro and is forever linked to the unforgettable summer of '96.

2. 1996 Away Kit

England’s only grey shirt is synonymous with Euro '96. Although it ended in semi-final heartbreak against Germany, this unique design is part and parcel of the England supporter experience.

1. 1966 Away Kit

The pinnacle of England’s football history, this is the shirt in which England lifted the World Cup in 1966. Its plain yet unmistakable design is the epitome of English football heritage.

As we look forward to the final on Sunday, these shirts remind us of the rich history and the moments of magic and madness that make supporting England a rollercoaster of emotions. Which iconic shirt will you don to cheer on the Three Lions?