Ex-Manchester United skipper and current PFA executive Martin Buchan has paid tribute to his former colleague and friend Brian Greenhoff who died suddenly this week at the age of 60.
Brian and his brother Jimmy enjoyed a magical time together at Old Trafford – winning the FA Cup in 1977, along with captain Buchan – before Brian moved to Leeds two years later.
Martin remembers his time with Brian at United with great affection, especially the almost-telepathic defensive partnership they formed seemingly against all the odds.
“Our partnership came into being by sheer chance,” Martin recalls. “It came about when Jim Holton was injured in a freak accident before a pre-season friendly at Old Trafford against Red Star Belgrade in the summer of 1975.
“I think we were 3-0 down at half time but fought back to level the game, we might even have won it.
“Brian, previously a midfield player, was a quick learner and settled in very quickly. In our first year together he helped us to third place in the League and to the FA Cup Final, which we lost to Southampton.
“And, of course, he played a big part along with brother Jimmy in the following season's FA Cup campaign when we returned to Wembley to beat Liverpool in the 1977 final.”
Like everyone in the game who knew and respected Brian, as a player and a person, Martin was devastated by the news of his death this week.
He added: “Obviously it was a great shock to hear about Brian's untimely passing. I have fond memories of playing alongside him in the centre of United's defence.
“The 1975-76 and 1976-77 seasons, when we were back in the top division after the nightmare of relegation, were the happiest of my career.”
Former Red Devil Lou Macari, himself a part of that 1977 cup-winning side, also paid tribute to his old colleague, saying: “Brian loved playing for United, it was a dream come true for him. His only aim was to keep playing for United as long as he could and he was a true servant.”
Brian went on to make 271 appearances for his beloved United, and he was also supremely proud of the 18 caps he won for England.
Another former teammate, Arthur Albiston, also has fond memories of a dedicated professional who was known for his versatility as well as his energy.
Arthur says: “He got in the first team very young – in midfield. But he found his niche at centre back and he was one of the best around. You couldn’t compare him to anyone nowadays.”
All at the PFA wish to send our condolences to Brian’s family and friends at this sad time. He will be greatly missed.
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