The kitman and me: Charlie kept me out of trouble with Big Jack

IRISH soccer legend Paul McGrath has posted a photograph of himself paying tribute to former Boys in Green kitman Charlie O’Leary on his 100th birthday.

Born in 1924 – the same year as the first senior Irish international game – Charlie was best known for his role as Ireland’s kitman from 1986 until 2000. It was a golden period for Irish soccer, with the squad enjoying trips to three major finals between 1988 and 1994.

That run began with Euro ’88 and ended with USA ’94, with the unforgettable Italia ’90 World Cup sandwiched in between.

Charlie had a strong rapport with former manager Jack Charlton as well as with members of the squad.

During Italia ’90, he met Pope John Paul II along with the Irish team.

Among Charlie’s closest friends in the Ireland camp was Paul McGrath, and the former Aston Villa defender paid a visit to him before Christmas, when he looked ahead to the big birthday.

‘Still going strong at 99,’ he wrote. ‘A trip down memory lane with Charlie O’Leary & family.

Yesterday, he wished Charlie a happy birthday, saying: ‘Happy 100th birthday to a great friend over the years who looked away a few times and kept me out of trouble with Jack. Love you Charlie.’

President Michael D Higgins also paid tribute to the FAI legend. In a letter to Charlie for his birthday, he wrote: ‘You have lived through remarkable times in the history of Ireland and the world.

‘You have witnessed remarkable changes, in lifestyles and technological developments, unimaginable at the time of your birth in 1924.

‘Charlie, your role as the esteemed kitman for the Irish football team during Jack Charlton’s era as manager is etched in the hearts of our nation.

‘Your many years of service and the camaraderie and sense of unity you fostered among the players contributed not only to the success of the team but also to the collective happiness of the Irish people.’