Tom Connell

Irish Footballer that Played for Man Utd - Tom Connell

Tom Connell - Introduction

Tom Connell was born on 5 August 1979 in County Down, Northern Ireland and was a defender that could play at fullback or in central defence. Connell was established in Irish football, having played for Newry Town and Coleraine, before he signed for Manchester United. He was one of a batch of young players that Reds manager Dave Sexton signed in the summer of 1978. Others included fellow Northern Irishmen Norman Whiteside and Tom Sloan.

Tom Connell & Manchester United

Tom Connell made his Manchester United debut on 22 December 1978 against Bolton Wanderers. He played in place of regular United left-back Stewart Houston. It was an unhappy debut for Connell at Burnden Park as United lost by three goals to nil.

Connell retained his place for his second, and last, Manchester United appearance in the next match. On 26 December 1978 United played host to Liverpool FC at Old Trafford. Unfortunately for Connell and United Liverpool also beat the Red Devils 0-3.

Connell remained at Old Trafford for another three and a half years playing in the United reserves however the arrival of new manager, Ron Atkinson, signalled the end of his time

With the Reds. In July 1982 Tom Connell left Manchester United to join Glentoran in Northern Ireland for a transfer fee of £37,000.

Tom Connell - Northern Ireland Career

Tom Connell made his one and only appearance for Northern Ireland as a substitute on 19 May 1978 against Wales. Connell was still with Coleraine at the time. Northern Ireland lost 1-0 away to the Welsh in the British Home Championships.

Tom Connell - Manchester United & Northern Ireland Statistics

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