He is quite simply the best player Villa ever had. He won two league cups with us but deserved more. I would love to see a statue of this guy outside VP. Legend of the game and a decent humble man
Wish she would just listen to him, let him talk and not keep interjecting or finishing his sentences or guessing what he is about to say which is inevitably wrong. A great opportunity ruined. Fortunately he is calm and serene enough not to get wound up from it. What a fascinating man who's had an amazing life. Nice tribute to Big Jack
Being mixed race and the same age I remember shaking going to school and feeling terrible, like many others of that generation of colour, but Paul is one of the all time greats of world football and definitely a great Irish man, lovely man
Robert, I grew up in the same time period. I seen what you went through. I know that I could never have been a black man, I was never that brave. I believe that being a witness helped me to take a stand against the norm of that time, it’s not even an issue now where I live in Glasgow, but being a Catholic is still seen as a bit of an obstacle, exclusion at best.
I'm English, but, aged 12, went to school in Dublin for a short while. In 1979. I assumed I would get beaten up for being English. But, no, it never happened. The Irish are such a friendly people 👍🇮🇪🇬🇧
As a Villa fan, i used to go home and away with Villa when Paul played for us. It was a honour to watch him in action and you realise what a brilliant player he was. He is still loved today by us Villa fans and is one of the best players to play for us.
I am not Irish and I have never supported any team he played for but I always admired how he overcame all his disadvantages, his alcoholism and physical problems yet he still became such a magnificent player.
What the fuck,I’m no united or villa fan but this guy would be worth a fortune if he was playing today.watched him with villa at white hart lane and he was on another level
Used to watch him at Old Trafford back in the early 80's week in and week out; when his knees allowed! He was man of the match every game - no word of a lie. A truly world class talent
Brummie, Villa fan, Ireland fan. Paul McGrath is God. He thinks he wouldn't make it in today's game, but when he played against the (then) worlds best striker in Roberto Baggio, Paul was dominant. Baggio still wakes up with nightmares about Paul McGrath.
I had the honour to meet Paul the most genuine honest gentleman I have ever met, as a Villa fan he was my hero and to meet him omg he was everything I thought he would be
Leeds fan here,massive respect to paul.we all watch the game for legends like him.he was so composed under pressure and always played the game fairly.enjoy your retirement pal thanks for the wonderful footballing memories.
Wish she took a leaf out of the young lads book, on being able to listen politely and take in what's being said as opposed to can't wait to get her tuppence worth in. Paul McGrath - Legend.
I'm not Irish nor normally fond of anyone who played for United but Paul McGrath is someone I always looked at from afar and admired. In many ways with his demons he reminded me of Gazza but not so mad cap just a right humble kind hearted man. Should you ever find yourself on these comments Paul never do yourself down after a drink before going on the field you were quite simply brilliant so god knows what you would have been like without one and you would more than cope with the modern lads if you were playing now. I could name a few legendary Italian defenders and on your day you were right up there with them. Nice to see you doing well, God bless 👍
Watched the Jack Charlton docu tonight...Paul Mac was a huge part of that docu...touched a nerve....the drink..those demons...Italia 1990...God bless you fella...X
Favourite memory of ‘God’ in a Villa shirt and one of my favourite memories ever at Villa Park...he was running towards the Holte End with Mark Walters chasing him in a Liverpool shirt. It was Walter’s first return to Villa Park...God flicks the ball over his head, turns on a sixpence and turns away with the ball....Mark Walters was recovered 5 minutes later still in row N in the Holte End! Outrageously gifted and an all round class act. “Paul McGrath my lord, Paul McGrath”
I think George best might have a claim to that. Maybe he wasn't from the republic but he was still from the island of Ireland. Roy Keane is also a contender
Northern Irish Leeds fan here. What an awesome person Paul is. So humble and modest for a man that was one of the greatest midfield player that ever played. Could listen to this man's stories all day long. So glad he has overcome his demons and the shameful prejudice he endured. A true gentleman and a credit to his country.
Yes ,you are so right.Great player and a treat to listen to.I was at that game in New Jersey in the 94 World Cup.He was masterful.It was one of the greatest times of my life.I could cry when I think of that day.Jack Charlton and all the lads gave us something to look back on. That Leeds team of the 70s were something else too,sadly they are passing on now,Norman Hunter,Billy Brenner,Peter Lorimer.Great , intelligent players.Thankfully Johnny Giles is still with us.Cheers and good luck from the USA
If only modern footballers were as grounded and as humble as this man. As revered as footballers are even he knows they aren't as important as doctors and such like. Unlike today's footballers who think they are actually worth what they get paid.
He is my favourite footballer of all time but how would he have coped today ? Every time he went for a drink it would be on the internet today’s footballers have no private life (yes they have it so good in so many ways but hopefully you get my point and like he said himself he wouldn’t cope today)
Mr Paul McGrath is without question the best Irish player we have ever had. FACT! I would give anything to meet Paul. Just to say hello and say i love him.
I met him in Dublin once on the street and he had no issues with actually stopping and accepting my greeting and a quick snap I'll never forget the moment 📸
You Jack and the rest of the team gave us hope and pride i can still remember being on top of traffic lights with the tricolor after the Romania match hundreds of cars one moment i will never forget same with Italy at the Giants stadium hanging out of the car window and especially the England match in 88 you earned being Irish the second you were born the blood plenty of sweat and tears you gave earned respect
An absolute legend I was only 6 year old in italia 90, 10 year old in USA 94, 36 year old today and I remember them two tournaments like it was yesterday, thanks for the great memories Paul.
Great interview,McGrath was one of the great ones.I'll never forget that game against Italy in 94 out in The Meadowlands in NJ. God bless him. The interviewer makes him feel at ease.She's a fine lady ,very empathetic.😍☘️
Paul McGrath is a very special Footballer, and I had the honour witnessing this man playing in a Villa shirt. And as for the modern Footballer Paul McGrath would walk into any side in any Country. I wish him all the best and his Family. Love ya Macca!!!!
This guy fiished his career at my club Sheffield United, he was by far the most taleted player at the club . He is very modest as he talks about the "players" of today, he was head and shoulders above all of them, he got kicked he got back up and gave as good as he got ( no coning the ref or acting like he had been shot) all the best to you Sir .
As an Irishman in my early 60’s. Paul, thank you for the incredible memories you have given me and my family. You are an IRISH treasure. I hope you and your family have a healthy and happy life.
Such a class player that he couldn't train but still destroyed forwards. Just a monster of a centre half. Tough as teak but also extremely skillful. The word legend is now used lightly Paul McGrath certainly is.
Totally agree. Only player I seen in the EPL that could read a game like him was a prime Fabregas. He never had pace but that rarely got exploited. He is too humble to think he wouldnt make the grade today. Most clubs would happily pay over 50million for a player like the black pearl of inchacore.
I was born in the 70's, grew up in the 80's and my godfather was Irish. He taught me hurling, we played tennis and took me to watch London Irish. He did all that while having 3 boys of his own. I remember asking him back then why he wasn't racist and said 'Trevor, i'm Irish, we're the blacks of Europe'. I have never forgotten that.
Trevor, I have to say, my experience of many Irish folk in the late 60's and 70's wasn't pleasant - being mixed raced from West London. Being raised Catholic, I attended Catholic schools as a kid and in my teens and I was verbally abused and bullied on a daily basis, by kids of Irish backgrounds. Needless to say, not all were bad, however in the 60s and 70's they where not exactly friendly towards black people back then in my experience .
The most modest legend I've ever seen interviewed. Great footballer, some of the best have had drink problems, with the money and temptations they had, who are we to judge?
Alex Ferguson wanted Paul to take 100 Grand and not play for anyone again.Crazy!!!. Lucky Kevin Moran and Bryan Robson gave Paul the right advice and reject that money.
The greatest player ever to pull on a villa shirt and there have been some greats I’ll be forever grateful to have seen him play live every week thank you god
McGrath came to Sheff Utd when he was 38. He only played about 10 games for us at Championship level but he created a massive impression amongst Blades. It was so obvious you were witnessing a past master, it was like watching a magic trick....he always knew where the ball was going to be passed before it happened.....his positional play and sniffing out danger was still world class even when he’s 38. Also he was really slow but weirdly no young strikers could use their pace to get past him. We always used to say “if he’s this good at 38 then what was he like in his prime”. Another player that came to us well past his best but oozed class was Gordon Cowans,....he also created a massive impression amongst Blades.
@@markhemming318 Cowans was Howard Kendalls’ first signing at Sheff Utd. We instantly played some really nice control possession football under Kendall and Cowans was key to this change in style. GC used to permanently patrol the centre circle area. He was like a 5 a side player playing the 11 a side game. His first touch was top class so team mates could pass to him even when he was semi marked up. Also he had the intelligence to realise that often the simple pass is the most effective. No fancy stuff just constant short passes to feet and you quickly realised he was running midfield just by controlling possession. As I said both McGrath and Cowans left a really positive impression amongst and both names still receive plenty of mentions when we have forum threads regards our best players in the last 30 years....this is impressive when you consider McGrath only played 12 times for us and Cowans played 21 times for us.
@@sheffsteel7 The sad thing is, Sid, as he's affectionately known to all Villa fans, as recently been diagnosed with early Alzheimers. It's kind of strange, because with this link between footballers and dementia, I don't actually remember Sid heading a ball. Still, it was a shock and very sad news to the Villa faithful. He was part of the coaching staff to the under 23s for a few years, but due to his I'll health he has had to leave all that behind, which must have been a wrench as his love for us is as deep as any fan's.
Spurs fan here this guy was world class, and one of the greatest defenders British football has seen , also rated Des walker another class defender who never gets mentioned
@@dannyboywhaa3146 He would. Love to see him in the red shirt though. To know he was born down the road in Ealing would have been even better for Rangers to have him picked up.
so good that they sold him to villa for peanuts. then became the best player we had for the next 7 years, and likely still the best player until jack came along!? the best buy villa ever had for sure. legend is overused, but mcgrath was. i never even took his colour into consideration, he was just the best centre back in the country at the time.
He'd make 1st team at any club at his prime...imagine his raw ability physical attributes and tactical awareness combined with modern nutrition fitness regimes and less bloody booze.
You were great, Paul i dont care if you had a problem but you could play now, and you would still be the best i am 78 years old and have seen them all but you irish lads are the same as my grandfather he loved a pint or two, his family came from Cork i adored him. When i was born, he stopped drinking and never looked back! I am a Geodie, and Jack Charlton was my favourite manager his knowledge was amazing. He picked you because you were the best, never did he pick a fool. Great to see this clip. Good luck. To you all.
i saw paul once on market st in manchesterwhen i was about 17, he was with a lady and i just instinctiveley put my hand out to shake, he shook my hand and said have a nice day. love paul mcgrath. onre of the best
No names... a mate of mine, we both played for the same Sunday league club, said come out for a drink tonight in Sale, (near Manchester). It was a Saturday night. He said we'll have a laugh and then the game tomorrow. He then said a mate of his is coming... OK. Anyway, we actually met in Ashton on Mersey, The Buck, he was on his own and said his mate would be here in a few mins. Paul McGrath walked in.. ( in those days it was the norm to see a footballer in and around Sale/Stretford... nothing to gawp at) I said to my mate oh look. We were both City fans. My mate just said, '' Garry, don't annoy/pick on him.'' I thought it a little strange, why would I? You left the footballers alone, we all knew that back then. Paul walked up and grinned and give my mate a little hug and said hello to me and shook my hand. I was taken aback, to say the least! Well, I got the drinks in... he had half a Guinness. After a while and I was a little more at ease, we ended up having a great laugh. Very friendly... not the slightest hint of arrogance, no ego whatsoever and a good laugh. He acted in a way to me feel at ease! I did ask some silly questions... more out of mischief, being a City fan and obviously, him being in the United team( nothing nasty) he took it all in his stride and joined in. I made him choke on his beer from giggling... I asked him, ''With all the great players at United, what's it like having that useless ++++ Alan Brazil in the team?" He took it in the spirit it was said! Never said one nasty thing, no sly digs at any other footballer nor team. Anyway, the next morning I met my mate at Turn Moss (playing fields) for the game. We got changed and went out to the pitch and the game began. After a ten min's we were two up ( I scored both) and I saw a couple man and woman, sat down on a rug next to the pitch watching the game and cheering me when I scored the second goal. It was Paul McGrath... it wasn't a great goal and the other team were poor. I was embarrassed as hell!! Even the other team were laughing! I ended up scoring 5. At full-time he came across to see my mate and me and he grinned said to me he was glad he wouldn't be facing me in attack on a Saturday. Great sense of humour!
My absolute hero at Villa Park. Everyone I go to Wexford I always look out just in case I bumped into Paul. I would certainly like to shake hand and thank him for the memories.
He comes across so humble a fascinating insight to what a player being half irish one of my 1st footballing memories was seeing him in the Giants stadium against italy in 94. Colossal
God SHE is a very bad INTERVIEWER . Talking with mouth full. Not knowing Aston Villa was not his last Club . Typical rte interview . Paul McGrath deserves better a lot better .
@@ck1643 iv given up on Sport in Ireland and England . The carry on of the so called reporter's and most of the players is insulting to us as well . Shockingly Bad
Paul mc grath keeper road in crumlin dublin 12. Played for saint pats athletic fc and then man utd. Legend of a man and also the respect that paul had for jack and jack had for him. Rip jack🇨🇮
PAUL YOU ARE A LEGEND !!! EVERYONE LOVES YOU ! DO NOT BE HARD ON YOURSELF !! NO ONE IS PERFECT ? BRILLANT FOOTBALLER . AND YOUR VOICE IS SO SOFT AND BEAUTIFUL ! YOUR FOOT BALL SKILL ARE SECOND TO NONE . WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY !!!
I know fellas in my home town who still talk about playing against Paul McGrath in the Oscar Traynor trophy final in the early 80s, before he was picked up by St. Pat’s. He stood out even then.
Hmm sorry to destroy your wish list with some facts but... - Paul McGrath is actually English as he was born in London. - Phil Lynott was Northern Irish so is in fact British - 2 out of 4 from U2 are English as they were born in England
Funny at the end ...he’s so modest that she doesnt seem to understand just how good he was and how great his career - arguably the greatest player to ever play for the ROI.
I hope that Paul reads all these comments. If he does he will see so much respect coming from fans of every club. He was THAT good.
He is quite simply the best player Villa ever had. He won two league cups with us but deserved more. I would love to see a statue of this guy outside VP. Legend of the game and a decent humble man
💯%
100% legend
Definitely, an absolute legend , Villa have had some great players over the years but GOD is the best of the lot for me
@@markharrington9265 God? How original
@@edmundpower1250 tell the thousands who nicknamed him god, no point telling me because your opinion is irrelevant to me ta rah 👋🏻
Wish she would just listen to him, let him talk and not keep interjecting or finishing his sentences or guessing what he is about to say which is inevitably wrong. A great opportunity ruined. Fortunately he is calm and serene enough not to get wound up from it. What a fascinating man who's had an amazing life. Nice tribute to Big Jack
wow talk about your one steering the answers so obvious
She spoiled the whole interview, asking and answering her own questions 😡Total turn off🤫
@@DavCaz1964 one mouthy broad.
Paddy please don't be so damned stupid
Didn't think she was that bad. I just the big man's personality and demeanour, so chilled and relaxed. Love the man!
Being mixed race and the same age I remember shaking going to school and feeling terrible, like many others of that generation of colour, but Paul is one of the all time greats of world football and definitely a great Irish man, lovely man
His mother was Irish. His ancestors were Irish. He is one of the greatest Irish players ever.
Robert, I grew up in the same time period. I seen what you went through. I know that I could never have been a black man, I was never that brave.
I believe that being a witness helped me to take a stand against the norm of that time, it’s not even an issue now where I live in Glasgow, but being a Catholic is still seen as a bit of an obstacle, exclusion at best.
I'm English, but, aged 12, went to school in Dublin for a short while. In 1979. I assumed I would get beaten up for being English. But, no, it never happened. The Irish are such a friendly people 👍🇮🇪🇬🇧
@@francishuddy9462 it's good to hear you had a good experience of Ireland
Much love bro
As a Villa fan, i used to go home and away with Villa when Paul played for us. It was a honour to watch him in action and you realise what a brilliant player he was. He is still loved today by us Villa fans and is one of the best players to play for us.
I am not Irish and I have never supported any team he played for but I always admired how he overcame all his disadvantages, his alcoholism and physical problems yet he still became such a magnificent player.
He played better pissed not that he ever played bad and never trained as well he was always carrying a Injury to
What the fuck,I’m no united or villa fan but this guy would be worth a fortune if he was playing today.watched him with villa at white hart lane and he was on another level
Yes mate real class
That’s why we still call him God.
Used to watch him at Old Trafford back in the early 80's week in and week out; when his knees allowed! He was man of the match every game - no word of a lie. A truly world class talent
Brummie, Villa fan, Ireland fan. Paul McGrath is God. He thinks he wouldn't make it in today's game, but when he played against the (then) worlds best striker in Roberto Baggio, Paul was dominant. Baggio still wakes up with nightmares about Paul McGrath.
I had the honour to meet Paul the most genuine honest gentleman I have ever met, as a Villa fan he was my hero and to meet him omg he was everything I thought he would be
One of our own
I agree with you. He was very honest over this interview.
He was class mate, also thought Southgate was on another level to lots of England defenders and I'm a spurs fan
Same here, just an absolute joy
Leeds fan here,massive respect to paul.we all watch the game for legends like him.he was so composed under pressure and always played the game fairly.enjoy your retirement pal thanks for the wonderful footballing memories.
He should do audiobooks. What a voice.
creamy smooth
Or TV voice overs.
Same as Phil Lynott another famous 'Irishman' of African decent.
Paul did an advert a few years back for Chef sauce in Ireland:
th-cam.com/video/7mdkNmh8Vg8/w-d-xo.htmlsi=GAwAVPZdYX8oLFwc
@@rael1999Why the inverted commas? Paul has spent most of his life in Ireland, and his mother is Irish. He’s not Tony Cascarino.
Wish she took a leaf out of the young lads book, on being able to listen politely and take in what's being said as opposed to can't wait to get her tuppence worth in. Paul McGrath - Legend.
Agreed, a radio voice ....and face!
Paul McGrath is a National hero, always has been, always will be!
I'm not Irish nor normally fond of anyone who played for United but Paul McGrath is someone I always looked at from afar and admired.
In many ways with his demons he reminded me of Gazza but not so mad cap just a right humble kind hearted man.
Should you ever find yourself on these comments Paul never do yourself down after a drink before going on the field you were quite simply brilliant so god knows what you would have been like without one and you would more than cope with the modern lads if you were playing now.
I could name a few legendary Italian defenders and on your day you were right up there with them. Nice to see you doing well, God bless 👍
That day against Italy he was immense
Anyone who played for United. You spanner
@@mister3566 Come again? I would have tried to think of something to call you back but you sound a nob so wont bother.
Why does she keep talking over him and finishing his sentences.
Paul’s a lovely humble dignified man. God Bless him.
She’s a bad interviewer
McGrath what a player he was , players that are on 150 k a week now couldn’t lace his boots , I’m telling you fantastic player was Paul 👍👊
McGrath vs Italy 🇮🇹 was incredible
He was a colossus at the back!!!
heroic player, what a guy. massive respect for McGrath
Something special about Paul McGrath. Honoured to have seen him play and what a player he was, I wish him all the very best
One of the best Irish captains ever we'd kill for Paul back in the modern game infinite respect for someone who actually cares about ireland
He was never captain but was class
Watched the Jack Charlton docu tonight...Paul Mac was a huge part of that docu...touched a nerve....the drink..those demons...Italia 1990...God bless you fella...X
I haven't seen it but saw somebody mention on a football forum just then that McGrath was one of the few people big Jack still recognised instantly.
I watched "Finding Jack" on BBC4 last night 07/04/2021). That's why I'm here now 👍🇮🇪🇬🇧⚽
Paul McGrath is an Irish Legend, gave his Heart 💚 every time he played for Ireland, 👹United, or Villa, Top Drawer athlete and a thorough gent☘🕶👍🍻👍
Every time I see and hear this man speak, it lights up my heart. Great player and person. So humble too it’s a lesson for everyone in the game today.
Not just in football, but in life. Be humble.
Favourite memory of ‘God’ in a Villa shirt and one of my favourite memories ever at Villa Park...he was running towards the Holte End with Mark Walters chasing him in a Liverpool shirt. It was Walter’s first return to Villa Park...God flicks the ball over his head, turns on a sixpence and turns away with the ball....Mark Walters was recovered 5 minutes later still in row N in the Holte End!
Outrageously gifted and an all round class act.
“Paul McGrath my lord, Paul McGrath”
so true! who's he trying to kid saying he would'nt make it in todays era the guy was pure class.
And I remember that too
Paul was the best Irish player ever and Jack a great manager and man RIP
Absolutely top draw. Would make my world 11.
I think George best might have a claim to that. Maybe he wasn't from the republic but he was still from the island of Ireland. Roy Keane is also a contender
Great player but I think George Best, Brady, Giles and Keane would be in the mix as well.
@@darrenlamb5640 George Best was the best footballer in the world.
roy keane was
Northern Irish Leeds fan here.
What an awesome person Paul is. So humble and modest for a man that was one of the greatest midfield player that ever played. Could listen to this man's stories all day long. So glad he has overcome his demons and the shameful prejudice he endured. A true gentleman and a credit to his country.
Yes ,you are so right.Great player and a treat to listen to.I was at that game in New Jersey in the 94 World Cup.He was masterful.It was one of the greatest times of my life.I could cry when I think of that day.Jack Charlton and all the lads gave us something to look back on.
That Leeds team of the 70s were something else too,sadly they are passing on now,Norman Hunter,Billy Brenner,Peter Lorimer.Great , intelligent players.Thankfully Johnny Giles is still with us.Cheers and good luck from the USA
He played midfield occasionally yes and was good but he was a GREAT defender not a great midfielder
If you get a chance, read Paul's autobiography, Back From The Brink. It is both heart breaking and inspiring. I have nothing but respect for the man.
If only modern footballers were as grounded and as humble as this man. As revered as footballers are even he knows they aren't as important as doctors and such like. Unlike today's footballers who think they are actually worth what they get paid.
He is my favourite footballer of all time but how would he have coped today ? Every time he went for a drink it would be on the internet today’s footballers have no private life (yes they have it so good in so many ways but hopefully you get my point and like he said himself he wouldn’t cope today)
Mr Paul McGrath is without question the best Irish player we have ever had. FACT! I would give anything to meet Paul. Just to say hello and say i love him.
What a player .One of the world's greatest centre backs.
DEFINITELY.....
well...........youll have to clarify it
@@stephencoveney4269 I think his point was self explanatory
I met him in Dublin once on the street and he had no issues with actually stopping and accepting my greeting and a quick snap I'll never forget the moment 📸
Has anyone seen Baggio since 94?,no he's still McGrath's pocket...legend.
He could easily be a top player today. He timed his tackles perfectly and read the game
Greatest player I've ever had the pleasure to see play for Aston Villa. Such a lovely, humble man too.
What a wonderful man, and so incredibly gifted.
Why don't most modern interviewers understand that no one wants to listen to them. Ask questions then shut up and listen to the answer.
Was just thinking the same, she’s finishing his sentences and putting words in his mouth. Let the great man speak FFS!
She genuinely seems interested in what Paul is saying, for me that's a good interview.
Have to agree she needs to let the man speak.
Unprofessional.
@@pamelafiddes9060 Being genuinely interested is a given; that's a starting point.
For me, the greatest player ever to pull on a Villa shirt. An absolute legend.
You Jack and the rest of the team gave us hope and pride i can still remember being on top of traffic lights with the tricolor after the Romania match hundreds of cars one moment i will never forget same with Italy at the Giants stadium hanging out of the car window and especially the England match in 88 you earned being Irish the second you were born the blood plenty of sweat and tears you gave earned respect
An absolute legend I was only 6 year old in italia 90, 10 year old in USA 94, 36 year old today and I remember them two tournaments like it was yesterday, thanks for the great memories Paul.
Brilliant!.Fantastic interview!.
What a day it was.
And more importantly Paul is such a nice man.Great man.🇮🇪☘️💚👍
Great interview,McGrath was one of the great ones.I'll never forget that game against Italy in 94 out in The Meadowlands in NJ. God bless him.
The interviewer makes him feel at ease.She's a fine lady ,very empathetic.😍☘️
You're a legend, Paul. Loved you at United with Moses, Moran, Whiteside, Robson and company.
Bryan Robson how much would he be worth today
@@richardevans7035 potloads.
Paul McGrath is a very special Footballer, and I had the honour witnessing this man playing in a Villa shirt. And as for the modern Footballer Paul McGrath would walk into any side in any Country. I wish him all the best and his Family. Love ya Macca!!!!
He looks so well and relaxed during this interview
This guy fiished his career at my club Sheffield United, he was by far the most taleted player at the club .
He is very modest as he talks about the "players" of today, he was head and shoulders above all of them, he got kicked he got back up
and gave as good as he got ( no coning the ref or acting like he had been shot) all the best to you Sir .
Had a season ticket for years when he played down at villa absolutely amazing he was loved by all the fans, true genius and seems a really nice chap 😊
As an Irishman in my early 60’s. Paul, thank you for the incredible memories you have given me and my family. You are an IRISH treasure. I hope you and your family have a healthy and happy life.
Such a class player that he couldn't train but still destroyed forwards. Just a monster of a centre half. Tough as teak but also extremely skillful. The word legend is now used lightly Paul McGrath certainly is.
Up there with one of the best defenders in the game
Totally agree. Only player I seen in the EPL that could read a game like him was a prime Fabregas.
He never had pace but that rarely got exploited. He is too humble to think he wouldnt make the grade today. Most clubs would happily pay over 50million for a player like the black pearl of inchacore.
Too modest he’d be just as world class today
my hero growing up this man
Most humble man... I am inspired!!
I was born in the 70's, grew up in the 80's and my godfather was Irish. He taught me hurling, we played tennis and took me to watch London Irish. He did all that while having 3 boys of his own. I remember asking him back then why he wasn't racist and said 'Trevor, i'm Irish, we're the blacks of Europe'. I have never forgotten that.
Trevor, I have to say, my experience of many Irish folk in the late 60's and 70's wasn't pleasant - being mixed raced from West London. Being raised Catholic, I attended Catholic schools as a kid and in my teens and I was verbally abused and bullied on a daily basis, by kids of Irish backgrounds. Needless to say, not all were bad, however in the 60s and 70's they where not exactly friendly towards black people back then in my experience .
The most modest legend I've ever seen interviewed. Great footballer, some of the best have had drink problems, with the money and temptations they had, who are we to judge?
Why does this woman keep finishing his sentences. Let the man speak
Alex Ferguson wanted Paul to take 100 Grand and not play for anyone again.Crazy!!!. Lucky Kevin Moran and Bryan Robson gave Paul the right advice and reject that money.
I wish I could just hear Paul’s voice uninterrupted. He’s got the most calm voice ever
The greatest player ever to pull on a villa shirt and there have been some greats I’ll be forever grateful to have seen him play live every week thank you god
What a fantastic bloke. Brilliant footballer of any age. Amazing modesty (I'm a City fan. Proper legend).
Paul is a wonderful conversationalist.
What a humble man, great interview, thank you.
As a Villa fan and of Irish descent “GOD” has always been my hero! This just further cements it. “Paul McGrath my Lord, Paul McGrath”
McGrath came to Sheff Utd when he was 38. He only played about 10 games for us at Championship level but he created a massive impression amongst Blades. It was so obvious you were witnessing a past master, it was like watching a magic trick....he always knew where the ball was going to be passed before it happened.....his positional play and sniffing out danger was still world class even when he’s 38. Also he was really slow but weirdly no young strikers could use their pace to get past him. We always used to say “if he’s this good at 38 then what was he like in his prime”. Another player that came to us well past his best but oozed class was Gordon Cowans,....he also created a massive impression amongst Blades.
Thanks for that comment. I'm a Villa fan and I consider both of those players to be Villa legends.
@@markhemming318 Cowans was Howard Kendalls’ first signing at Sheff Utd. We instantly played some really nice control possession football under Kendall and Cowans was key to this change in style. GC used to permanently patrol the centre circle area. He was like a 5 a side player playing the 11 a side game. His first touch was top class so team mates could pass to him even when he was semi marked up. Also he had the intelligence to realise that often the simple pass is the most effective. No fancy stuff just constant short passes to feet and you quickly realised he was running midfield just by controlling possession. As I said both McGrath and Cowans left a really positive impression amongst and both names still receive plenty of mentions when we have forum threads regards our best players in the last 30 years....this is impressive when you consider McGrath only played 12 times for us and Cowans played 21 times for us.
@@sheffsteel7
The sad thing is, Sid, as he's affectionately known to all Villa fans, as recently been diagnosed with early Alzheimers. It's kind of strange, because with this link between footballers and dementia, I don't actually remember Sid heading a ball. Still, it was a shock and very sad news to the Villa faithful. He was part of the coaching staff to the under 23s for a few years, but due to his I'll health he has had to leave all that behind, which must have been a wrench as his love for us is as deep as any fan's.
Thank you, God.
The respect the Irish have for jack charlton is unbelievable. 👌🏼
Absolute icon. ☘
Nice bronze statue of Jack in Cork Airport.
Decent chap from Northumberland. That generation is sadly passing on now.
Spurs fan here this guy was world class, and one of the greatest defenders British football has seen , also rated Des walker another class defender who never gets mentioned
Walker was another player who worked hard and played hard, guess it was a generational thing.
He's too modest. He'd walk into the united side. Best centre half they ever had.
He’d walk into most sides mate. He was class.
@@dannyboywhaa3146 He would. Love to see him in the red shirt though. To know he was born down the road in Ealing would have been even better for Rangers to have him picked up.
@@pauldhesi9312 he’s Irish he’d not have been caught dead in a rangers shirt and rightly so.
so good that they sold him to villa for peanuts. then became the best player we had for the next 7 years, and likely still the best player until jack came along!? the best buy villa ever had for sure. legend is overused, but mcgrath was. i never even took his colour into consideration, he was just the best centre back in the country at the time.
@@RB-NZ2 Queens Park Rangers are down the road from Ealing!!
Love you Paul. Ireland and Villa for ever 🥰🥰🥰
What a Player and what a Man.
Live Long and Live Large Paul
.... in 46yrs of watching football, i have one hero .... Paul Mcgrath.
Absolutely Brilliant player , and such a humble guy , would walk into any team today he was on another level
I disagree with Paul saying he couldn’t cut it today
He was a great player for Manchester United
I loved watching Paul play.
He'd make 1st team at any club at his prime...imagine his raw ability physical attributes and tactical awareness combined with modern nutrition fitness regimes and less bloody booze.
You were great, Paul i dont care if you had a problem but you could play now, and you would still be the best i am 78 years old and have seen them all but you irish lads are the same as my grandfather he loved a pint or two, his family came from Cork i adored him. When i was born, he stopped drinking and never looked back! I am a Geodie, and Jack Charlton was my favourite manager his knowledge was amazing. He picked you because you were the best, never did he pick a fool. Great to see this clip. Good luck. To you all.
Paul you are world class,
i saw paul once on market st in manchesterwhen i was about 17, he was with a lady and i just instinctiveley put my hand out to shake, he shook my hand and said have a nice day. love paul mcgrath. onre of the best
Classy player. Could have played in any top league in the world.
No names... a mate of mine, we both played for the same Sunday league club, said come out for a drink tonight in Sale, (near Manchester). It was a Saturday night. He said we'll have a laugh and then the game tomorrow. He then said a mate of his is coming... OK. Anyway, we actually met in Ashton on Mersey, The Buck, he was on his own and said his mate would be here in a few mins. Paul McGrath walked in.. ( in those days it was the norm to see a footballer in and around Sale/Stretford... nothing to gawp at) I said to my mate oh look. We were both City fans. My mate just said, '' Garry, don't annoy/pick on him.'' I thought it a little strange, why would I? You left the footballers alone, we all knew that back then. Paul walked up and grinned and give my mate a little hug and said hello to me and shook my hand. I was taken aback, to say the least! Well, I got the drinks in... he had half a Guinness. After a while and I was a little more at ease, we ended up having a great laugh. Very friendly... not the slightest hint of arrogance, no ego whatsoever and a good laugh. He acted in a way to me feel at ease! I did ask some silly questions... more out of mischief, being a City fan and obviously, him being in the United team( nothing nasty) he took it all in his stride and joined in. I made him choke on his beer from giggling... I asked him, ''With all the great players at United, what's it like having that useless ++++ Alan Brazil in the team?" He took it in the spirit it was said! Never said one nasty thing, no sly digs at any other footballer nor team. Anyway, the next morning I met my mate at Turn Moss (playing fields) for the game. We got changed and went out to the pitch and the game began. After a ten min's we were two up ( I scored both) and I saw a couple man and woman, sat down on a rug next to the pitch watching the game and cheering me when I scored the second goal. It was Paul McGrath... it wasn't a great goal and the other team were poor. I was embarrassed as hell!! Even the other team were laughing! I ended up scoring 5. At full-time he came across to see my mate and me and he grinned said to me he was glad he wouldn't be facing me in attack on a Saturday. Great sense of humour!
Garryleerob
Thanks for that, that’s a really lovely story and memory. cheers.
He was a fabulous footballer, but what a great man he is.
My absolute hero at Villa Park. Everyone I go to Wexford I always look out just in case I bumped into Paul. I would certainly like to shake hand and thank him for the memories.
For my just an absolute legend. One of my all time favourites
He comes across so humble a fascinating insight to what a player being half irish one of my 1st footballing memories was seeing him in the Giants stadium against italy in 94. Colossal
I didn't know Liverpool were in for him! Plus I love the Phil Babb story😂
Fergie wouldn't have been impressed with her sister
Legend 💪🏼👏🏼👍🏼
Paul you have made us proud your as as much Irish as the rest n maybe more ! Thank you 🙏🏻🇮🇪
A great Irishman, Paul McGrath. So many memories...
God SHE is a very bad INTERVIEWER . Talking with mouth full. Not knowing Aston Villa was not his last Club . Typical rte interview . Paul McGrath deserves better a lot better .
I'm glad u said that coz I have been thinking that and haven't seen anyone else putting that into the comments
@@ck1643 iv given up on Sport in Ireland and England . The carry on of the so called reporter's and most of the players is insulting to us as well . Shockingly Bad
Universally liked from club to country. I don't really think Paul even gets it himself how much respect he has. Great player. Great man. Great human.
top top player way too humble! He would of made it in any era i would loved to have seen him at liverpool.
You did when he was playing for utd .
@@jasonobrien8919 yer always admired him i'm an aussie so not caught up in that lfc v utd tribal thing
Paul an amazing person, a hard upbringing but that makes he such a beautiful individual
Paul mc grath keeper road in crumlin dublin 12. Played for saint pats athletic fc and then man utd. Legend of a man and also the respect that paul had for jack and jack had for him. Rip jack🇨🇮
What a player he was. Good to see Paul looking well too. From an Arsenal fan.
I had the pleasure of meeting Paul during his book signing at villa park. Perfect gentleman.
PAUL YOU ARE A LEGEND !!! EVERYONE LOVES YOU ! DO NOT BE HARD ON YOURSELF !! NO ONE IS PERFECT ? BRILLANT FOOTBALLER . AND YOUR VOICE IS SO SOFT AND BEAUTIFUL ! YOUR FOOT BALL SKILL ARE SECOND TO NONE . WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY !!!
I know fellas in my home town who still talk about playing against Paul McGrath in the Oscar Traynor trophy final in the early 80s, before he was picked up by St. Pat’s. He stood out even then.
Never seen him play a minute but oh ah Paul McGrath love him like a brother 🇮🇪
Top man Paul. Never forgotten !
What a player he was!!
U2, Phil Lynott and Paul McGrath, my favourite Irishmen. Some parts of your story sound like the Phil Lynott story.
Hmm sorry to destroy your wish list with some facts but...
- Paul McGrath is actually English as he was born in London.
- Phil Lynott was Northern Irish so is in fact British
- 2 out of 4 from U2 are English as they were born in England
@@mrfrisky2997 Ummmm!
Lost for words George anyway it ain't where you're from its where you're at as a person
@@mrfrisky2997 Paul McGrath grew up in Dublin and his mother was Irish.
@@johnbalance3989 Yep, born in England, grew up in Ireland and spent the next 20 years in England- your point is??
🎶"Who needs Cantona when we got Paul Mcgrath"🎶
GOD SIMPLE!!
Paul absolutely would be able to play in this modern era. A giant of a player and would have adapted to the modern game developing to what was needed
Funny at the end ...he’s so modest that she doesnt seem to understand just how good he was and how great his career - arguably the greatest player to ever play for the ROI.
Does she have to interject at every breath? Let him talk FFS.