Charlton was commanding the game but was substituted just after Beckenbauer pulled a goal back to reduce England's 2-0 lead. It was believed Ramsey was protecting his ageing talisman from the heat and for a potential semi-final.

The change became one of the most fateful of Ramsey's reign as Charlton's departure allowed the shackles to be released from Beckenbauer, who inspired West Germany's comeback to win 3-2.

They lost 4-3 to Italy after extra time in the semi-final but Beckenbauer took centre stage once more, playing on with his right shoulder in a sling after suffering a dislocation, both allotted substitutes having been used.