May 1 2015 marks 50 years since our first appearance in an FA Cup final, a day at Wembley which proved to be historic for more than one reason.

Starting on the left-wing for Leeds United was 25-year-old South African Albert Johanneson, who broke new ground for football as he became the first black player to feature in the competition’s prestigious final.

The result itself was a disappointing one, though, with Liverpool edging to a 2-1 victory in extra-time. There was nothing to separate the two sides after 90 minutes, but Roger Hunt struck just three minutes into extra-time to put Liverpool ahead before Leeds responded through Billy Bremner, lashing a ferocious half-volley into the top corner following Jack Charlton’s knockdown.

The game looked to be heading for a replay, until Ian St. John’s diving header ensured the trophy would be on its way back to Anfield with seven minutes remaining on the clock.

50 years on and Johanneson’s involvement, despite not quite being at his best, was perhaps the most significant factor on that afternoon at Wembley and today he is regarded as a courageous pioneer for the game, paving the way for countless black footballers to thrive in the English game.

After being recommended by a school teacher in his hometown of Johannesburg, Albert impressed while on trial at Leeds and soon became the first player signed by Don Revie back in 1961. He was a regular fixture in the side by the 1963/64 campaign and contributed 13 league goals as United won promotion from the old Second Division, with his explosive pace and eye for goal making him a firm fans’ favourite.

Former team-mate Billy Bremner, United’s goalscorer in the 1965 final, was among those who spoke very highly of Johanneson’s attributes. "I would like to say what an excellent player he was. He was frightening on the wing and used to turn defenders inside out,” the legendary Scotsman said.

“He was fast, clever with the footwork, very accurate with crosses, and had a terrific shot. I always thought that he did not get a fair deal from the media because he was black.

“They were forever on about being the first black player to do this, or the first black player to do that. They completely overlooked the fact that he was a terrific player and deserves recognition as a human being and professional footballer."

After nine years at Elland Road and just under league 200 appearances for the club, Albert departed for York City following a succession of injuries and the rise to prominence of Eddie Gray which limited his opportunities in the side. He went on to spend two years at York before retiring from the game in 1972.

His story after football is a sad one, and Albert tragically passed away aged just 55 in 1995.

50 years on from that day at Wembley, everybody at Leeds United remembers Albert fondly and is forever grateful for what he did, not only for the club, but for the whole sport.