Sammy McIlroy

Born :	02 Aug 1954
Signed :	01 Aug 1969
Debut :	6 Nov 1971 v Man City (A) League
Goals total :	71
Appearances total :	419
Position: :	Forward
Left United :

Debuts don't come much more unnerving than the Manchester derby, but the 17 year-old Sammy McIlroy came through his baptism of fire with flying colours – scoring once and assisting twice at Maine Road to instantly endear himself to the United faithful.

The Northern Irish winger was Matt Busby’s final signing at Old Trafford, penning amateur forms with United in August 1969. He turned professional two years later before his derby bow on November 6, 1971.

His emphatic entrance to the first-team setup didn’t seal a regular starting berth, and McIlroy largely remained a substitute for the next year.

Seriously

injured in a car accident in January 1973, he fought his way back into the team against all odds the following season to earn himself a regular place in the starting line-up.

That season ended with the gloom of relegation, but McIlroy was a permanent and crucial fixture in the side that secured an instant return to the top flight. His domestic importance was matched on the international scene, and he went on to win 88 caps for Northern Ireland.