A FORMER national football player is finally being awarded a medal for a tournament he played in the sixties.

Tony Marchi, 85, who lives in Suffolk Road, Maldon is a former Tottenham FC player and one of the oldest surviving players from the club.

Mr Marchi received his 1961 winners’ medal on Wednesday, June 13.

It was presented to him at his home by former Double-winning team-mates Cliff Jones and Terry Dyson, both 83.

Club Historian John Fennelly was also in attendance to preside over the historic moment.

At the time, only players who made 14 appearances or more were eligible for a winners’ medal under a Football League rule.

After 57 years, and following a relaxation of that rule, the Club has moved to secure an authentic medal to ensure formal recognition for Tony’s achievement and contributions.

Mr Marchi said: “I was very, very surprised indeed when I heard the news that Tottenham had done this for me.

“I was choked at the time not to receive a medal having played in that marvellous side but to now have one after all this time is wonderful.

“The message from Spurs came right out of the blue.

“To hear of the effort they put in on my behalf to make it all happen and for them to pay me this tribute is just superb.

“I am so grateful to all concerned and will always cherish my medal.

“It was great to see Cliff and Terry again too, and to share so many memories with them of a special period in my career.

“It brought back lovely memories of a great side, a great season and a great time in the history of Spurs.

“I was always so proud of having played a part in that success and receiving this medal means the world to me on so many different levels.”

Club Chairman Daniel Levy said: “We remain rightly and justly proud of our rich history and heritage as a Club.

“I am delighted that we have been able to secure a deserved winners’ medal for Tony Marchi, via the Professional Footballers’ Association and the EFL, to formally reward him for the part he played in our Double success.”

Earlier this year, the Tottenham Tribute Trust, a charity dedicated to serving the needs of former players, installed a stairlift at Mr Marchi’s home.

Mr Marchi was also visited earlier this year by former captain Gary Mabbutt who presented him with gift bag for his 85th birthday.