Kevin Moran, a famous figure from United’s past, joined Helen Evans and David May to discuss his career on our latest UTD Podcast.
The Irish centre-back was with May at Blackburn Rovers late in his career but only after starting two FA Cup finals with United in the 1980s, as we lifted the cup by beating Brighton & Hove Albion and Everton. Unfortunately, Kevin was the first man ever to be sent off in the showpiece event, for a foul on Everton’s Peter Reid in 1985. Ron Atkinson’s 10 men still won, thanks to Norman Whiteside’s iconic goal, and, of course, Moran recalls that day and answers the question of whether he ever received his medal.
Growing up, he played hurling and Gaelic football in his homeland, which could have derailed his United career before it had started, as he would secretly play in some high-profile games in the Republic of Ireland, without the club’s knowledge! He even reveals he turned the Reds down when they first came calling!
A late starter, he only got into football at 14, his commitment and bravery would become legendary with United’s gamble on him paying off. Atkinson replacing Dave Sexton at the helm made a difference in terms of his fight for a first-team place, but his time at Old Trafford came to an end after Sir Alex Ferguson’s arrival, which he discusses in detail as the Scot tried to rid the club of its drinking culture.
A move to Sporting Gijon in Spain showed his sense of adventure and he would remain a stalwart for Republic of Ireland, being part of Jack Charlton’s famous 1990 World Cup side and even making the squad four years later, as he ended up on 71 caps.
Kevin tells us more about his interesting career path after retirement and is still a season ticket-holder at Old Trafford. This your chance to hear his story in full!
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