McKendry pays tribute to ‘legend’ Harry Gregg

COLERAINE chairman Colin McKendry has paid tribute to Harry Gregg OBE who sadly passed away in the early hours of Monday morning…

The goalkeeper was on the books at Coleraine before earning a cross-channel move to Doncaster Rovers in 1952. However, his impressive performances caught the attention of Manchester United who paid £23,000 for his services, which at the time was a world record fee for a goalkeeper.

He is sometimes referred to as “The Hero of Munich” for his actions in the aftermath of the Munich air disaster, pulling his teammates – including Bobby Charlton, Jackie Blanchflower and Dennis Viollet – from the burning plane.

Gregg also starred on the international stage as he earned 25 caps for Northern Ireland and was voted the best goalkeeper at the 1958 World Cup.

Off the field of play, Gregg was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1995, and made an Officer of the Order (OBE) for services to football in the 2019 New Year Honours.

“It is with deep sorrow that we learnt of the passing of Harry Gregg OBE, the father of our Youth Development Officer John Gregg, and Grandfather of our Academy player Harry Gregg,” McKendry said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.

“Harry was a frequent visitor to The Showgrounds and it was with personal sadness I learnt of his passing this morning.

“On behalf of the club and our supporters we would send our sincere condolences to the family.

“He took a keen interest in local football and in particular youth football through his foundation. He was a true legend and gentleman.”