Briansmurph: The Manchester United / Irish connection

O'Shea - Irish i'national
By Briansmurph
April 3 2009

Messageboard regular ‘Briansmurph’ has offered us a brief history of the strong connection that exists between Manchester United and Ireland. Brian has recently launched his own site on SportNetwork devoted to Giovanni Trapattoni's Republic of Ireland side. Following their 1-1 draw in Bari, R.O.I have given themselves a fine chance of qualifying for the 2010 World Cup finals.

Possibly one of the main reasons for the Irish interest in Manchester United began back in 1958, a year we all remember, the year of the Munich Air Disaster. Well it was in this tragic event that an Irishman, Liam Whelan, was amongst the other souls who perished that day.

Liam was born on the 1st of April 1935, into a devout Catholic family in Dublin, Ireland. He began his career with Home Farm before making his way across the waters to join Manchester United. During his time at United, he made a total of 98 first team appearances scoring 52 goals in the process. A good tally by any mans standards. Not alone this but he was also a regular of the Republic Of Ireland national team. He was 22 the day he died, and it is said that he ushered the faithful words "If this is the end, then I'm ready for it" just before the aircraft crashed. He is fondly remembered by both United fans and the Irish alike.

Then again, Manchester United and Ireland have always had strong ties in the form of footballers playing for the Red Devils. Both North and South. With players including George Best, Shay Brennan, Harry Gregg, Sammy McIlroy, Norman Whiteside, Frank Stapleton, Denis Irwin, Roy Keane, John O'Shea and Liam Miller. Even the great Sir Matt Busby himself was born into an Irish family. A strong following has been grown in Ireland for the mighty men from Manchester, and it seems that when an Irish man leaves the ranks, there is always one coming through the ranks, or in the door. This support has been gaining force every year and will of course continue to do so as Manchester United endeavour to pursue trophies on all levels.

The 1999 Champions League Final in Barcelona capsulated the love for this club perfectly. The Catholic/Protestant divide cast aside and explained through a common love, as an Irish banner read "MUFC - The Only Religion!"

Check out Brian's new site here on the FootballNetwork by clicking here . The messageboard is also thriving so if you have any interest in Irish football or just fancy a bit of banter then click here to get involved.