Stanley Matthews called time on his long and famous career on 6 February 1965 against Fulham at the age of 50 and 5 days.

[1] Manager Tony Waddington continued to improve the squad prior to the start of 1964–65 season with experienced players.

[1] This policy found favour with the fans, the quality of an attack that included Peter Dobing, Dennis Viollet and Jimmy McIlroy was there for all too see, and local prospects flourished alongside this impressive forward line.

[1] To say thank you to Matthews, Stoke arranged a match against a team of international star players which was broadcast live to an estimated worldwide audience of 112 million.

[1] After an impressive 4–1 win against Blackpool Stoke drew 0–0 with Manchester United before losing 1–0 at a foggy Old Trafford.