Ireland's Finest

It was sad news indeed on the passing of Ireland legend Jack Charlton; who was a legendary player for Leeds United and won the 1966 World Cup with England. He is also the older brother of England & Manchester United legend Bobby Charlton.

But perhaps Jack Charlton will always be best remembered for his legendary manager-ship of Republic of Ireland; who against all the odds managed to shock all in the international game at Euro '88; with that never-to-be-forgotten victory over England 1-0 thanks to a goal from Ray Houghton. He then followed up with an equally unbelievable run at Italia '90; when his team went unbeaten in the group phase; securing draws against heavyweights such as England; Egypt and Holland; before that unforgettable David O'Leary-inspired penalty shootout win over Romania.

Along the way; he harnessed the considerable talents of players like Houghton; Ronnie Whelan; Kevin Sheedy; Andy Townsend & John Aldridge; and with a unique team strategy & unyielding team spirit; turned them into a sum worth more than their considerable parts.