The FAI have paid tribute to Peter Thomas a former Ireland goalkeeper who passed away aged aged 78 today
Peter Thomas, a former Waterford FC goalkeeper made over 600 appearances for his club over five spells.
He also managed to win two caps for Ireland and one of those came against Pele's Brazil, who were world champions in 1974.
His former club tweeted, "Waterford FC is deeply saddened by the passing of legendary former goalkeeper Peter Thomas. Widely regarded as the best goalkeeper to grace the League of Ireland, Thomas passed away today surrounded by his loving family,” the club said today.
"Affectionately known as Tommo, the goalkeeper won five league titles with the Blues and an FAI Cup during a golden era for the club. Thomas had numerous spells with the Blues over the years, making almost 600 appearances; retiring at the age of 40."
“He won two caps for the Republic of Ireland before later going on to manage Tramore AFC, the town he made his home in Ireland. May he rest in peace.”
PETER THOMAS - RIP
Waterford FC is deeply saddened by the passing of legendary former goalkeeper Peter Thomas.
Widely regarded as the best goalkeeper to grace the League of Ireland, Thomas passed away today surrounded by his loving family. pic.twitter.com/NTg34NdxXz— Waterford FC (@WaterfordFCie) January 19, 2023
The FAI also offered their condolonces and added, " The FAI is saddened to learn of the passing of former Ireland international Peter Thomas A legendary figure in Waterford, Peter won five League titles with the club.
"He also played for Galway United and Drogheda United Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam"
Thomas started off as a striker and joined Waterford from Coventry City in 1967 and eventually would be converted into a goalkeeper.
He made 193 apperances for Waterford in 1967 after making the move permanant. There was also spells with Galway United and Drogheda during his career.
Thomas would have spells at a number of clubs in America like Washington Wizard's, Utah Golden Spikers, and other clubs, but returned Waterford on more than one occasion.
He is became the first English-born player to represent the Republic, qualifying through the parentage rule, he made his senior debut in a 1-0 win at home to Poland in 1973.
He also coached Tramore FC and his beloved Waterford after retiring in 1985
Honours
- League of Ireland: 5
- Waterford United 1967–68, 1968–69, 1969–70, 1971–72, 1972–73
- FAI Cup:
- Waterford United 1980
- SWAI Personality of the Year
- Waterford United – 1969/70
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