Newcastle United legend’s shirts and memorabilia up for auction

THE personal collection of a Newcastle United goalscoring powerhouse who made football history is to be sold at auction.

George Robledo, born in Chile, made 166 appearances for United, scoring 91 goals, after arriving at St James’ Park with younger brother Ted, a midfielder.

They were the first brothers to play for Newcastle, and the first South Americans to play professional football in Britain. George won 31 caps for Chile and played in the 1950 World Cup finals in Brazil while Ted earned nine caps, Both played in the Newcastle 1952 FA Cup final team.

: plaque unveiled to South American players

Earlier this month, a commemorative plaque to George and Ted Robledo was unveiled at the house they lived in at Fenham in Newcastle. The ceremony was attended by George’s daughter Elizabeth, who had travelled from her home in Chile.

She brought with her George’s memorabilia collection from his Newcastle days, which will now be sold on May 25 by sports specialist Graham Budd Auctions. “It is a wonderful collection,” said Graham.

The top items in the sale are the black and white No 10 shirts worn by George in the 1951 and 1952 FA Cup finals. George’s jersey from the 1952 match, when he scored the only goal of the game against Arsenal to retain the cup for Newcastle, is estimated at £6,000-£8,000.

The shirt from the 1951 final, when two goals from Jackie Milburn saw United beat Blackpool 2-0, is rated at £4,000-£6,000. George kept his menu and invitation from the Lord Mayor of Newcastle to a dinner to honour the 1951 FA Cup winning team.

The eight-page menu back cover is signed by members of United’s team, including Harvey, Robledo, Cowell, Taylor, Corbett, Walker, Brennan, and Bob Stokoe. Estimate £150-£250.

George’s efforts