Kevin O'Callaghan (born 19 October 1961) is a former professional footballer, who played as a left winger. Born in England, he made 21 appearances for the Republic of Ireland national team scoring once.
Early years
O'Callaghan was born in Havering on the 19 October 1961 to Paddy and Barbara O'Callaghan.
Playing career
O'Callaghan enjoyed two spells at Millwall as well as stints at Portsmouth and Southend. His most successful years came after transferring to Ipswich Town for a record breaking £250,000 in 1980, joining Bobby Robson's revolution at the club. O'Callaghan contributed to Ipswich's victorious 1980-81 UEFA Cup campaign, making five appearances during the run.[2] However he was not part of the squad for the final itself. He also earned a call up to the Irish national team, who he represented on 21 occasions, scoring one goal.
He was in the Portsmouth team that won promotion to the First Division in 1987 after nearly 30 years away, and then signed for Millwall, helping them reach the First Division in 1988 for the first time in their history. They stayed there for two years, and he stayed with them for a season after relegation.
A knee injury brought his career to an abrupt end in 1993.
Coaching career
Following his playing career Kevin came into his own as a coach, at Millwall he helped plenty of talented youngsters reach their full potential including the likes of Tim Cahill.
Other Ventures
O'Callaghan appeared in the 1981 movie Escape to Victory, cast in the unfamiliar role of goalkeeper alongside Michael Caine, Sylvester Stallone and Pelé. [3]
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1981 | Escape to Victory | Tony Lewis - Allied Goalkeeper - The Players: Ireland |
Family life
O'Callaghan currently lives in Kent with his wife and two daughters. [citation needed]
Honours
Winner
Winner
Runner up
- 1980–81 Football League First Division (Level 1)
- 1981–82 Football League First Division (Level 1)
Winner
See also
References
- ^ Dunk, Peter, ed. (1987). Rothmans Football Yearbook 1987–88. London: Queen Anne Press. p. 290. ISBN 978-0-356-14354-5.
- ^ "Games played by Kevin O'Callaghan in 1980-81". prideofanglia.com. Retrieved 28 September 2017.
- ^ Baker, Danny & Kelly, Danny (2009) Classic Football Debates Settled Once and For All, Volume 1, Ebury Press, ISBN 978-0-09-192851-3, p. 233
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