United Icons | Denis Irwin

Is Denis Irwin's United's greatest ever left-back?

Let's explore his career and why he was so much of a fan favourite.

Author | Lee Francis

Before moving to Old Trafford

Denis Irwin began his career with Leeds in 1983, making 72 appearances in the Second Division, before moving on to Oldham Athletic on a free transfer in 1986. 

He helped Oldham reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup, where his side lost to United, and also the final of the League Cup in 1990.

Moving to United and playing a part in our dominance

In 12 years at Old Trafford, he made 296 Premier League appearances and won seven Premier League title medals, as well as two FA Cup winner's medals (1994 and 1996), a League Cup winner's medal, and UEFA Champions League and European Cup Winners' Cups. 

He was comfortable in either of the full back positions and an expert at free kicks and penalties, and even in his mid-thirties, he was still United's first choice left-back in preference to the much younger Phil Neville.

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Because he used to take free-kicks and penalties, Irwin scored 33 goals, with one of the best ones being a goal against Tottenham in 1993. This is celebrated for the wonderful assist from Eric Cantona as much as the goal itself.

During the Treble season of 1998/1999, he played 48 matches and started in the Champions League final against Bayern Munich. He was also a key part of the following season when we were crowned champions on Easter Saturday and won the league by 18 points. 

Later career at Old Trafford

Irwin was awarded a testimonial match for Manchester United, played on 16 August 2000 against city at Old Trafford. Despite testimonials being friendly matches, due to the match being between local rivals, it was a physical affair. Irwin went off injured in the 37th minute after a bad challenge by city striker George Weah.

Irwin made his last appearance for Manchester United at Old Trafford against Charlton Athletic on the final day of the 2001–02 Premier League season. The match ended in a 0–0 draw.  For his final appearance as a Manchester United player, Alex Ferguson awarded him the captain's armband.

Leaving as a legend

Irwin joined Wolverhampton Wanderers on a free transfer after the 2001–02 season, coincidentally joining them at the same time as his former Manchester United teammate Paul Ince, who also made a move to the club.

During his time with Wolves, he would eventually earn a promotion back to the Premier League and return to Old Trafford to face United. He was applauded pre-match by the Man United fans.

Wolves were ultimately relegated at the end of the 2003–04 season, and the 38-year-old Irwin then announced his retirement.