Remembering Aston Villa Legend Gary Shaw: The Golden Boy of Villa’s Golden Era
When it comes to Aston Villa legends, Gary Shaw’s name is certainly up there. With his shock of golden locks and winning smile, Shaw captured the hearts of Villa fans and became the local lad every aspiring footballer in Birmingham wanted to emulate. Sadly, Shaw passed away at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by Villa supporters.
A Key Player in Villa’s Golden Era
Shaw was an integral part of Villa’s golden era in the early 1980s. He played a crucial role in the team’s successes, including winning the league title, the European Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup. Known for his sharpness and tenacity on the field, Shaw had an eye for goal and was at the heart of all that was good about Villa during those glorious days.
Not Just a Local Hero
Shaw’s talents were recognized not only by Villa fans but also by some of the greatest footballers of his time. During Villa’s European Super Cup triumph over Barcelona, Shaw’s performance caught the attention of none other than Diego Maradona. Impressed by Shaw’s skills, Maradona sent one of Barcelona’s backroom staff to Villa’s dressing room with his shirt, requesting a swap with Shaw’s jersey. However, Villa’s kitman deemed the shirts too expensive to give away to opponents, and Maradona’s wish was never fulfilled.
Unrecognized by His Nation
Despite his impressive performances and contributions to Villa, Shaw’s talent was never fully recognized by his country. Although he won seven Under-21 caps and was voted England’s and Europe’s Young Footballer of the Year, he was never awarded a full international cap. This was a disappointment for Shaw, especially considering his significant goal-scoring record for Villa.
A Career Cut Short
Shaw’s career took a tragic turn when he suffered a severe knee injury while playing for Villa against Nottingham Forest. The injury curtailed what could have been an even more illustrious career, and Shaw tried to prolong it with moves to various clubs before retiring in 1992. Despite the setbacks, Shaw remained dedicated to the game and later worked as a statistical analyst for the Press Association and OPTA. He also served as a matchday ambassador for Aston Villa, continuing his love for the club.
A Mentor and a Humble Legend
Shaw’s impact extended beyond his playing career. As a Villa youth coach, he mentored young players like Gabby Agbonlahor, who went on to become Villa’s greatest ever Premier League goalscorer. Agbonlahor remembers Shaw as a humble and genuinely nice guy who selflessly shared his knowledge and experience. Shaw never boasted about his achievements but focused on coaching and nurturing the next generation of talent.
A True Legend Deserving of a Memorable Send-Off
The passing of Gary Shaw is a devastating loss for Aston Villa and the football community. As a true legend of the club, Shaw deserves a fitting send-off to honor his contributions to the game. Villa fans and the football world will forever remember him as the golden boy of Villa’s golden era, a player who embodied the spirit and passion of the club.
In Conclusion
Gary Shaw’s impact on Aston Villa and the football world cannot be overstated. His skills, humility, and dedication to the game make him a true legend of the sport. As we mourn his loss, let us celebrate his achievements and remember him as a player who brought joy and inspiration to countless fans.