Former Irish international Gerry Ryan passes away aged 68

He made most impact at Brighton and Hove Albion, making 199 appearances and scoring 39 goals, in one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

Mon, 16 Oct, 2023 - 09:53

John Fallon

Liam Brady has led tributes to Gerry Ryan, the former Ireland international who has passed away aged 68.

The Dubliner won the League of Ireland in 1975 and FAI Cup a year later before Tommy Docherty paid £40,000 to bring him to Derby.

He made a huge impact at Brighton and Hove Albion, making 199 appearances and scoring 39 goals, in one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

Wearing the number seven shirt, Ryan immediately looked at home in blue and white, scoring ten goals in his first season, including the third goal at Newcastle which sealed the club’s promotion to the First Division for the first time.

During that first season of top-flight football, he is remembered for an incredible 75-yard dribble and goal against Manchester City.

Capable of playing as a winger, in midfield, or as a striker, Gerry’s versatility made him a manager’s dream – highlighted by his superb performance at right-back when he came on as a substitute in the 1983 FA Cup final against Manchester United, following an injury to Chris Ramsey.

After nearly seven years at the Goldstone, Gerry was the victim of a terrible tackle by Crystal Palace’s Henry Hughton which badly broke his leg and brought to an end his professional career.

Gerry won 16 full Ireland caps while with the Seagulls and was the club’s most-capped player until Steve Penney took the mantle in 1988.

He later returned to the club during the 1993/94 season as Brady’s assistant, the pair having become close friends during their days playing for the Republic of Ireland.

Brady said: “Gerry was a wonderful teammate. He was a very quick winger, very brave, and he took people on. We had some great games together and then we ended up on opposite sides, for Brighton and Arsenal, in the old First Division.

“He was a very influential figure in the Brighton team that won promotion to the top flight and he also played his part in keeping them there.

“He was fantastic in the FA Cup final against Manchester United and just loved playing for the club. Brighton & Hove Albion was in his heart and he remained in the area for a long time.

“Gerry played a key role in me getting the manager’s job as he knew the directors and it made sense for me to bring him in alongside me. We did a pretty good job in what were, of course, difficult circumstances, and I could see then just what Brighton meant to him – he was in love with the club so much.

“Off the pitch, Gerry was just a really nice guy. He was affable, unassuming and got on with everyone he came in contact with. He’ll be sadly missed by everyone who knew him.”

"May he rest in peace."