How many caps did Paul McGrath win for Republic of Ireland?

Paul McGrath won 83 caps for Republic of Ireland, scoring 8 goals.

Which clubs did Paul McGrath play for?

St Patrick's Athletic (1981–1982), Manchester United (1982–1989), Aston Villa (1989–1996), Derby County (1996–1997), Sheffield United (1997–1998).

Where does Paul McGrath rank among Ireland's greatest footballers?

The 33 Legends almanac ranks Paul McGrath #4 of Ireland's 33 greatest players of all time.

‹ Ireland's 33

No verified career portrait available.

04 / Ireland · 1985–1997

Paul McGrath

CB leaderanchor

Caps · Republic of Ireland

Goals · Republic of Ireland

Life

1959

Clubs

St Patrick's Athletic, Manchester United, Aston Villa

Editorial rank of 33 for Ireland

–

The people's rank, live from duel votes

"The Black Pearl" was a majestic defender for Aston Villa and Ireland, showcasing elegance and power that belied his injury struggles. Career record: 83 caps and 8 goals for Republic of Ireland; club career at St Patrick's Athletic, Manchester United, Aston Villa.

Career sources

Career dates · checked 4 October 2026
Identity and career · Wikidata Q380200

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Career record

1981–1982	St Patrick's Athletic
1982–1989	Manchester United
1989–1996	Aston Villa
1996–1997	Derby County
1997–1998	Sheffield United
Republic of Ireland	83 caps, 8 goals

Sources

Senior international years checked 4 October 2026
Caps · Republic of Ireland checked 4 October 2026
Goals · Republic of Ireland checked 4 October 2026

Shared the era

Ireland legends whose careers overlapped McGrath's

The world's great CBs

Around McGrath in the almanac

One rank above: Johnny Carey at #3.

One rank below: Denis Irwin at #5.

Ireland's editorial top five: Roy Keane · Liam Brady · Johnny Carey · Paul McGrath · Denis Irwin.

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