William John Charles, CBE (27 December 1931 – 21 February 2004) was a Welsh international footballer who played for Leeds United and Juventus during his 25-year playing career. Rated by many as the greatest all-round footballer ever to come from Britain, he was equally adept as a forward or defender due to his strength, pace, technique, vision, ability in the air and eye for goal. He has since been included in the Football League 100 Legends and was inducted into the Football Hall of Fame. He was never cautioned or sent off during his entire career, due to his philosophy of never kicking or intentionally hurting opposing players. Thus, due to his correct behaviour and tall stature, standing at 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m), he was nicknamed Il Gigante Buono – The Gentle Giant.His brother, Mel Charles and nephew Jeremy Charles, also represented Wales. His grandson, Jake Charles, currently plays for Stafford Rangers, and has represented Wales at youth level.