Paul McGrath
#79,618 Most Popular
About
Retired Irish soccer defender known for his time with Manchester United and Aston Villa, earning more than 400 combined caps over 14 years with the clubs. Despite struggles with knee injuries and alcoholism, he's considered one of the best Irish soccer players to ever step on the pitch.
Before Fame
He played his youth soccer with Pearse Rovers and Dalkey United. He spent time as a security guard before going pro.
Trivia
Despite being born in England, he represented Ireland internationally, earning 83 caps in 12 years.
Family Life
He's of Irish and Nigerian descent. A product of an unmarried interracial relationship, he was given up by his mother, who feared the reaction of her own family. He spent much of his youth growing up in orphanages.
Associated With
He and Andy Townsend played together with Aston Villa in the 1990s.
