Aston Villa ‘deeply shocked’ by legend Gary Shaw’s death aged 63 | 7NEWS
Unai Emery has called on Aston Villa to honor the memory of Gary Shaw by winning their first Champions League match. Shaw, who passed away at 63, was part of the Villa team that won the European Cup in 1982. Emery expressed condolences and emphasized using Shaw's legacy as motivation, as the team plans to wear black armbands during the match. Shaw, an influential striker, made a significant impact on the club's success in the 1980s.
Unai Emery has called on his Aston Villa team to secure a victory in their opening Champions League match, honoring the memory of Gary Shaw, a legendary player who recently passed away. This significant return to European competition comes after a 41-year absence for the club.
Emery's Tribute to Gary Shaw
Emery expressed his condolences to Shaw's family and the supporters of Aston Villa, acknowledging the deep sense of loss felt following the death of the former striker. The current head coach emphasized the importance of remembering Shaw's contributions to the club, highlighting the presence of a picture commemorating the European Cup victory in 1982 at their training ground. He described the situation as sad and suggested that the team could use it as motivation to perform well in their upcoming match.
Wearing Black Armbands in Memory of Shaw
In a mark of respect, Aston Villa players will don black armbands during their Champions League fixture in Switzerland. Shaw, who had been hospitalized due to a head injury from a recent fall, was a crucial player in the club's storied history, contributing significantly during their successful campaigns in the early 1980s.
Aston Villa's Statement on Shaw's Passing
The club issued a heartfelt statement expressing shock and sadness at Shaw's passing. Describing him as a hero of the European Cup-winning side, Villa praised Shaw for his impressive record as a striker, celebrating the joy he brought to supporters through his goal-scoring prowess. Shaw’s peaceful passing surrounded by family was acknowledged, with the family requesting that the club share their sentiments publicly.
Shaw's Impact on Aston Villa and Beyond
Born in Solihull, Shaw joined Aston Villa as an apprentice and went on to score 79 goals in 213 appearances. His remarkable performance during their title-winning season earned him the PFA Young Player of the Year award. Though injuries impacted the latter part of his career, his legacy continued as he contributed to the club’s youth development, coaching young talents including striker Gabby Agbonlahor, who reflected on Shaw's impactful coaching style and humility.
