Memories of 1966: Sir Alf Ramsey's boys set standard that we still try to reach

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England's 4-2 extra-time win over West Germany remains the single most memorable moment in the history of English football and for nearly half a century has been a challenge too daunting for those who have tried to repeat the achievement.

The heroes of 1966 eventually slipped quietly into folklore and although they are always happy to acknowledge the chances of England's latest World Cup hopefuls they are, in private, immensely proud that their epic win that day at Wembley remains a unique triumph.

It was a passionate, controversial World Cup and debate still rages about the Geoff Hurst shot that struck the underside of the bar. Did it cross the line? The referee said it did and so ensured that Hurst passed into history as the only man to score a hat-trick in the final.

It was a life-changing occasion for Hurst and his team-mates and many of them celebrated victory that night at Danny La Rue's West End club. Jack Charlton ended up spending the night on the sofa of a complete stranger in Leytonstone.

The team had lunch with the manager Sir Alf Ramsey the following day and then dispersed. After eight weeks of intense preparation and competition it was all over. The nation celebrated for 24 hours and then returned to work.

Ramsey and his players set a standard that, decades later, has yet to be matched. But today fame and fortune is no longer dependent on achievement.

Can you imagine the frenzy that would accompany an England World Cup victory next month?