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 rose to become Arsenal's team leader and gained the nickname "The Iron Man" due to his impressive ability to control the ball with powerful headers, a skill that was particularly notable during a time when footballs were much heavier and posed greater risks of injury.