Frank Stapleton

Frank Stapleton was a centre-forward built on courage, timing and the old art of making defenders feel permanently uncomfortable. Strong in the air, brave in contact and intelligent with his back to goal, he gave Arsenal, Manchester United and Ireland a reliable attacking reference without being just a blunt target man. His heading was his most obvious weapon, but he also linked play well, held the ball under pressure and understood how to bring runners into the game. He was not a dazzling dribbler or a striker of spectacular flair, but his movement, work rate and competitive edge made him valuable in every serious attacking structure. For Ireland, he became a major figure, carrying leadership and goals through an important era. A classic centre-forward with brain, bite and enough craft to be far more than elbows and headers.