Bates went on to become Arsenal's captain and earned the nickname "The Iron Man", with a reputation for his powerful heading of the ball, in an era when footballs were far heavier and more dangerous to head than they are now.
Bates eventually took on a leadership role with Arsenal and gained the nickname "The Iron Man" due to his impressive ball control through powerful headers, a skill that stood out particularly during a period when footballs were heavier and posed greater risks of injury.