Peter Wilson

Widely regarded as one of the toughest defenders in the modern era, Peter Wilson was a dominating figure in the Australia team during the 1970s.

Born in England in 1948, Wilson migrated to Australia in 1968 to join South Coast United after failing to break into the first team for English club Middlesborough.

He started his career as full back but later switched to sweeper where he enjoyed greatest success.

Between 1970-79, Wison made a then record 115 appearances for the national team, and captained Australia from 1971, including the 1974 World Cup Finals.

When he signed with Sydney club Western Suburbs, Wilson travelled 257 kilometres four times a week for training.

He also played with Marconi and Apia Leichhardt and in later years coached South Coast and Apia.