Paul McGrath pays visit to Irish soccer legend 'still going strong at 99'

Irish soccer legend Paul McGrath has shared a picture of his visit to man who was a key part of the successful Jack Charlton era who has now reached the grand age of 99. 

Former Irish kit man, Charlie O'Leary, was involved with the Irish international set-up for many years. 

The former Manchester United and Aston Villa star called to see Mr O'Leary for a trip down memory lane, which McGrath said had "warmed my heart". 

He looked forward to his "big birthday" in February when Mr O'Leary will turn 100. 

In 2020, the FAI awarded Mr O'Leary a special merit award. 

Still going strong at 99 ☺️

A trip down memory lane with Charlie O’Leary & family
Today has warmed my heart

Looking forward to the big birthday in February #irishfootball pic.twitter.com/0LI2Ra7S1f

— Paul McGrath (@Paulmcgrath5) December 12, 2023

A former player, Charlie became a referee and officiated in the League of Ireland for more than 20 years and he oversaw the 1972 FAI Cup Final between Cork Hibernians and Waterford.

Involved with the Leinster Football League, Charlie acted as a Liaison Officer for international teams visiting Dublin for games before joining Jack Charlton's Republic of Ireland backroom staff as kitman.

The FAI outlined that Charlie was a key figure behind the scenes with the Irish team during the 1988 UEFA European Championships as well as the FIFA World Cup tournaments in 1990 and 1994.

Paul McGrath is one of Ireland's greatest ever players and features high up in any debate on who was Ireland's greatest ever player. 

His performance against Roberto Baggio and co when Ireland defeated eventual World Cup finalists Italy at USA 94 was one of his many outstanding performances for Ireland.