33·Legends
‹ Northern Ireland's 33
Northern Ireland

Sammy McIlroy

Icon CDM, also CM, CB Right-footed box-to-box
Rating
85
Caps
88
Goals
5
Life
1954
Clubs
Manchester United, Stoke City, Bury
Honours
Hall of Fame
#22
Editorial rank of 33 for Northern Ireland
–
The people's rank, live from duel votes

The classy midfielder was a vital cog in Alex Ferguson's Manchester United team, blending grit with surprising attacking flair during the 1970s. Career record: 88 caps and 5 goals for Northern Ireland; club career at Manchester United, Stoke City, Bury; honours include Hall of Fame.

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Career record

1971–1982Manchester United
1982–1985Stoke City
1985–1986Manchester City
1986–1986Örgryte IS
1986–1989Bury
1988–1988Admira Wacker
1988–1988VfB Mödling
1989–1991Preston North End
1991–1993Northwich Victoria
Northern Ireland88 caps, 5 goals

The world's great CDMs

Around McIlroy in the almanac

One rank above: Neil Lennon at #21.

One rank below: Alan McDonald at #23.

Northern Ireland's editorial top five: George Best · Danny Blanchflower · Pat Jennings · Peter Doherty · Aaron Hughes.