Denis Irwin
Testimonial August 16th 2000 v Manchester City
Outfield Kit
Goalkeeper's Kit
Denis Irwin could not have imagined the glittering career before him when he was released on a free transfer by Leeds United in summer 1986.
He joined Oldham Athletic, helping them to the Second Division play-offs in his first season and to the FA Cup semi-final in 1990. Irwin's performance in those semi final games against United persuaded Alex Ferguson to invest £650,000 on the Irishman.
An impeccable defender, comfortable on either flank, Irwin was a consistent performer in United's defence for twelve seasons, winning a glut of trophies (seven Premiership titles, three FA Cups, a League Cup and both Champions League and European Cup Winners' Cup medals).
He was also a dead bail specialist and most of his goals came from either the penalty spot or a free kick.
He made his final United appearance at the end of the 2001/02 season when he captained the side against Charlton. He moved to Wolves on a free transfer that summer, helping them win promotion in his first season.
Irwin played in both the Premier League games against United in 2003/04, receiving a standing ovation on his return to Old Trafford, before retiring in the summer of 2004.
He has since worked as a contributor on MUTV and for RTÉ in Ireland