MICHAEL D Higgins has led the tributes to Ireland’s most successful manager and football legend Jack Charlton who turned 85 today.
Former players, fellow sports stars and big names from outside the beautiful game were among those to pay tribute to the Charlton who oversaw a golden era in the history of Irish soccer.
Charlton was appointed Ireland manager in February 1986, going on to guide the Boys in Green to four major international tournaments in the space of just over six years.
High points included a famous 1-0 over England at Euro ‘88, defeating Romania on penalties to reach the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 1990 and a 1-0 victory over eventual World Cup finalists Italy at USA ‘94.
In a heartfelt letter shared on social media, President Higgins thanked Charlton for his contribution to Irish football.
"Under your leadership, Irish soccer fans were allowed to dream,” he wrote.
"For those moments, and for the hope and joy you brought to Irish soccer fans, we will always be grateful.
"As you celebrate your birthday, in unfamiliar but necessary constraints, may I send you my best wishes for you and your family at half time in your ninth decade".
"Under your leadership, Irish soccer fans were allowed to dream..."
A wonderful letter to Jack from @PresidentIRL on his 85th Birthday 👌
#HappyBirthdayJack | #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/MPsertq06b— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) May 8, 2020
Ireland legend Paul McGrath – who famously kept Roberto Baggio quiet during that legendary 1-0 win over Italy – was among those to say happy birthday to Charlton.
Happy 85th birthday Jack 💚🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/LznR9Zc5eZ
— Paul McGrath (@Paulmcgrath5) May 8, 2020
Those sentiments were echoed by John Aldridge, who described Charlton as “the best manager I had by far”, while Andy Townsend wished his old boss a happy birthday while urging him to stay at home and resist the urge to go fishing or off in search of a few well-earned pints.
Ray Houghton, meanwhile, thanked Charlton for “10 wonderful years” as Ireland boss.
"The best manager I had by far..." @Realaldo474 🙌
Fantastic birthday messages from @Realaldo474, @RayHoughton8, Terry Phelan & Andy Townsend 👏
Post your memories & messages using #HappyBirthdayJack 🎂
#HappyBirthdayJack | #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/EoTFbJWKCS— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) May 8, 2020
There were similar heartfelt messages of support from Mick McCarthy, Jason McAteer and Kevin Moran while the FAI shared a video remembering his best moments as Ireland manager.
"I know I was your favourite..." 😂 @MCATEER4
Great birthday messages to Jack from Mick McCarthy, @Paulmcgrath5, Kevin Moran & @MCATEER4 🇮🇪
Post your memories & messages using #HappyBirthdayJack 🎂
#HappyBirthdayJack | #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/ac65MK4YI4— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) May 8, 2020
Away from football, Irish golf superstar and 2019 Open winner Shane Lowry posted well wishes, while Mrs Brown’s Boys star Brendan O’Carroll shared a poem he penned in tribute to 85-year-old.
Riverdance star Michael Flatley was also among those to toast Charlton for his efforts and impact on the game.
