The talent will be forever praised, the memories of extraordinary reflexes preserved in every World Cup montage, but it is the humility of great men such as Gordon Banks that renders them truly exceptional.

Telegraph Sport was last invited to interview Banks in July, when England threatened to emulate the feats of 1966. As well as chronicling his wisdom on the art of goalkeeping, we were granted a glimpse into his dignified modesty.

Stoke’s Holiday Inn, where the meeting took place, had recently opened the ‘Gordon Banks Suite’, a seemingly obvious venue in which to talk and pose for a photograph.

Upon hearing my request to use the room dedicated to a Stoke City icon, the male receptionist looked in bewilderment, perplexed as to why this particular suite would be of use. He was evidently unaware of the identity of the VIP.

“Surely you want to use your own suite, Gordon?” I asked in a loud, pointed manner.