John Lingard on Jimmy McIlroy, Steve Rigby on the first black football manager, and Patrick Vallance on Manchester UnitedBrian Glanville’s obituary of Jimmy McIlroy (21 August) was factually comprehensive but fails to capture his class, skill and footballing ability in the days of muddy grounds, heavy wet leather balls and the tackling “skills” of the likes of Maurice Setters, Jimmy Scoular and Eddie Clamp.McIlroy was afforded no protection whatsoever, but thrived in excellent sides at Burnley and Northern Ireland. Beyond his ability on the field, Jimmy Mac was a modest, unassuming, quietly spoken gentleman – a credit to the game and town he graced for many years. The best footballer I have ever seen, though Tom Finney and George Best run him close.Dr John LingardNewcastle upon Tyne Continue readingreadfullarticle
