Gary Shaw, the Aston Villa legend and key figure in the club’s triumphs during the early 1980s, has tragically passed away at the age of 63 due to injuries from a fall at his home in Birmingham. Shaw, born in Solihull, became an integral part of Aston Villa’s success, helping the team win the First Division title in 1981 and the European Cup in 1982. His partnership with Peter Withe was central to these achievements, and his 79 goals in 213 appearances made him a fan favorite.
Shaw was celebrated for his talent early in his career, earning the PFA Young Player of the Year award in 1981 and the prestigious Bravo Award in 1982, recognizing him as one of the brightest young players in Europe at the time.
Aston Villa released a heartfelt statement expressing their grief and praising Shaw’s contributions to the club. “Gary was one of our own,” the statement said, acknowledging his goalscoring prowess and his role in the club’s success during the 1980s. His family was by his side when he passed away peacefully.
Shaw’s career was interrupted by a serious knee injury in 1983, which limited his progress, though he continued to play for Villa until 1988. After leaving Villa, he had stints with Blackpool, Walsall, Kilmarnock, and Shrewsbury Town before retiring in 1992. Post-retirement, Shaw worked as a statistical analyst and was a club ambassador for Aston Villa, continuing to be involved with the team he loved.
Tributes have poured in from all corners of the football world, with fans, former teammates, and the broader football community remembering Shaw as a gifted striker and a beloved figure who will always be a part of Aston Villa’s rich history.
GET MORE RELATED CONTENT ON SPORTWORDS.CO.UK
Leave a Reply