January 22 – Former Argentine World Cup star Osvaldo Ardiles says he is “fine and doing well” after being admitted to hospital following a car crash in the Falkland Islands. Ardiles, 61, became a legend not only in his country after Argentina’s 1978 World Cup triumph but also at Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur where is regarded as one of the all-time greats, winning both the FA Cup and Uefa Cup.
Known affectionately as Ossie, Ardiles was in the Falklands with compatriot and former team-mate Ricky Villa, who came to Tottenham at the same time and is best remembered for his mesmerizing goal in the 1981 FA Cup final replay.
Villa was not believed to have been injured in the accident, which happened on Monday night, though Ardiles, who still lives in London, reportedly needed more than 20 stitches in a head wound.
Ardiles and Villa have been in the Falklands to film a television documentary, directed by Freddie Ardiles, the youngest of the former footballer’s two sons.
“The attention and care we have received from the police, the RAF helicopter team, the doctors and nurses has been world class,” said Ardiles. “Thanks to everyone for your concern.”
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1734832407labto1734832407ofdlr1734832407owedi1734832407sni@w1734832407ahsra1734832407w.wer1734832407dna1734832407