The Dubliner moved from Derby to Brighton in 1978, appearing 199 times, and scoring 39 goals.
Gerry Ryan, a former forward for the Republic of Ireland and Brighton, passed away at the age of 68. From Derby, the Dubliner joined the Seagulls in 1978 and played 199 times, scoring 39 goals.
Ryan participated in the 1983 FA Cup final against Manchester United, which the Red Devils won 4-0 in a rematch after the first match between the teams ended 2-2, and scored the goal that ensured Albion’s promotion to the top division that season. He earned 18 caps for the Republic, but a fractured leg in 1985 put an end to his playing days.
Later, Ryan returned to Brighton to work as Liam Brady’s assistant. Brady was Ryan’s international teammate.
Gerry was a fantastic teammate, Brady said, according to the Brighton website. He took people on and was a very courageous and swift winger.
“Gerry was just a genuinely pleasant man off the field. He was friendly, unpretentious, and got along with everyone he met. People who knew him will greatly miss him.
Online tributes to Ryan have been flooding in, with RTE’s Des Cahill writing: “RIP Gerry Ryan. I always liked him when I used to watch him play with this fantastic #Bohs squad of the 1970s, which was highlighted in Shoot magazine as the “Eire Champions,” even though he went on to have a brilliant career in England.
Everyone at Brighton & Hove Albion expressed their sadness upon learning of Gerry Ryan’s passing at the age of 68 in a statement. At this difficult time, our sympathies are with Gerry’s family and friends.
“The FAI is saddened to learn of the passing of former Ireland international Gerry Ryan tonight,” the FAI stated. Ryan had a distinguished career that included playing for Bohemians, Brighton and Hove Albion, and Derby County in addition to earning 18 caps for Ireland. Peace be upon him.
