Mick McGrath, a celebrated football star, has died at the age of 89.
The defender was a distinguished member of Blackburn Rovers` 1960 FA Cup final team and one of its last surviving players.
McGrath also played a key role in the team`s success in the 1957/58 season, when they won promotion from Division Two.
He initially joined Blackburn from Home Farm, a club based in Dublin.
A dedicated player, McGrath represented Blackburn Rovers in over 300 matches and earned 22 caps for the Republic of Ireland national team.
In a past interview with the Telegraph, McGrath reflected on his time at Blackburn: “Coming from Ireland as a young lad to play for a club like Blackburn Rovers was an incredible opportunity, and breaking into the first team was an indescribable feeling.”
After his time with Rovers concluded at the end of the 1965-66 season, McGrath went on to play 50 games for Bradford.
He concluded his football career as a player-manager at Bangor City.
McGrath settled in East Lancashire after his playing days.
For more than 20 years, he worked at Thwaites Brewery before his retirement.
A spokesperson for Rovers commented: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Mick McGrath, a former player, at 89 years old.”
“Everyone at Blackburn Rovers extends their deepest sympathies and sincere condolences to Mick`s family and friends during this difficult time.”
