Patrick 'Don Patricio' O'Connell honoured by Barcelona

Former Irish football player and manager Patrick O’Connell was last night officially honoured by Barcelona before the La Liga giants’ home clash with Real Betis.

‘Don Patricio’ O’Connell has been credited with saving Barca from bankruptcy after the outbreak of the Spanish Civil war in 1936. He first oversaw victory in the 1937 Mediterranean League, then lead the team on a fundraising American tour the following year.

A special event before kick off saw O’Connell being inducted into Barca’s Hall of Fame, with O’Connell’s grandson Mike being thanked by senior club figures including the club’s legendary physio Angel Mur.