Nobby Stiles' son accuses Football Association of ignoring evidence linking heading to brain injuries. John Stiles, co-founder of Football Families for Justice, revealed a leaked court document shows the FA disputes owing duty of care to players. The FA declined comment but cited ongoing research into heading's long-term effects.

Post-mortem tests on Nobby Stiles confirmed advanced Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease tied to repeated head impacts. Other players like Gordon McQueen and Sir Bobby Charlton faced similar fates, with coroners attributing their deaths to football-related brain trauma. Stiles called football "a silent killer" after five years of fighting for recognition.

The FA defended its stance, claiming leadership in player safety through heading guidelines and concussion protocols. However, critics argue delayed action endangers current players. The association has funded research but faces mounting pressure to admit liability and support affected families.

This controversy threatens football's legacy, with families demanding accountability. As medical evidence mounts, the FA risks reputational damage unless it acknowledges heading's role in neurodegeneration.