Bert Frederick Williams MBE (31 January 1920 – 19 January 2014) was an English professional football goalkeeper best known for his lengthy spell with Wolverhampton Wanderers and for his appearances for the England national team. Nicknamed "The Cat" for his agility and reflexes, Williams was one of the leading British goalkeepers of the immediate post‑war era and was honoured with an MBE for his contributions to the sport.

Playing career

Williams began his senior career before the Second World War and, like many players of his generation, had his early years interrupted by wartime service and regional football. After the conflict he established himself as the first‑choice goalkeeper at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he spent the majority of his club career. With Wolves he was part of sides that won major domestic trophies and he became a highly respected figure at the club for his consistency and leadership from the back.

International career

At international level Williams represented England and was selected for their squads in the late 1940s and early 1950s, including the 1950 World Cup. He won more than twenty caps for his country, appearing in important matches and earning a reputation as a dependable international goalkeeper during a competitive period for English football.

Style and reputation

Observers praised Williams for his quick reactions, strong shot‑stopping and calm presence in goal. The sobriquet "The Cat" reflected his agility, while teammates and opponents noted his bravery in one‑on‑one situations and his ability to organise the defence. His playing style combined traditional goalkeeping attributes with an emerging focus on positioning and anticipation.

Honours and legacy

Williams collected domestic honours with Wolverhampton Wanderers, including the English League Championship and the FA Cup, and was later recognized for his services to the game with an MBE. After retiring from playing he remained linked to the football community and to Wolves as an honoured former player. At the time of his death in January 2014 he was reported to be the oldest living former England international, a mark of his long association with the sport.