Lille OSC 1954 Retro Voetbal Jack

The most successful era in Lille OSC’s history came early, back in the club’s first decade of existence after its formation in 1944. George Berry started the process by managing the club to a domestic double in 1946, before being succeeded by André Cheuva who was in charge for the next 12 years.

Under Cheuva Lille enjoyed regular Coupe de France success and top two Ligue 1 finishes culminating in a fine era in the early to mid-1950s that brought a title success in 1954, sandwiched by Coupe de France wins in 1953 and 1955.

Many of the club’s greatest-ever players starred in this era, including resolute defender Marceau Somerlinck, free-scoring international midfielder André Strappe, and prolific forwards like Jean Baratte, Jean Lechantre, Gérard Bourbotte, and Bolek Tempowski.