32. Ray Wilkins: 1973-79
Ray Wilkins is yet another player on this list who has featured for both Chelsea FC and Manchester United. Wilkins began his career with Chelsea after being promoted to the first team in 1973. Two seasons later, the 18-year-old Wilkins was given the captaincy by manager Eddie McCreadie and helped the Blues earn promotion after the 1977 season.
Two seasons later, in a story we have seen oft repeated in this list, Chelsea were relegated once again and short on cash. Wilkins was sold to Manchester United. Before that move, Wilkins made 198 appearances and scored 34 goals, not bad for a player seen by many as “negative”.
Wilkins was a terrific footballer who should have spent the majority of his career with the Blues but financial circumstances dictated otherwise. He became a regular for the England national team during his playing career and made 84 appearances for the Three Lions. Wilkins is currently a well-travelled assistant manager who spent several seasons in that role at Stamford Bridge.
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