Former Irish professional footballer who played as a striker, scoring 41 goals in 74 appearances for the Republic of Ireland national team. He's most known for his prolific goal-scoring career in the Premier League.
David Connolly, a former professional footballer born on June 6, 1977, is best known for his impressive goal-scoring record, which earned him a spot in the Republic of Ireland national team and a successful career in the Premier League.
Connolly started his professional career at Watford, where he scored an impressive 15 goals in 34 games. His goal-scoring form caught the attention of Dutch team Feyenoord Rotterdam, who signed him soon after.
During his time at Feyenoord, Connolly had loan spells at Excelsior Rotterdam and Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he scored four goals in one game against Bristol City. In 2001, he joined Wimbledon on a free transfer, where he scored an impressive 42 goals in two seasons.
In August 2003, Connolly was signed by West Ham United for £285,000 by manager Glenn Roeder. He scored on his West Ham debut in a 2-1 away win at Preston North End and went on to score 14 goals in 48 games in all competitions for the club.
After leaving West Ham, Connolly signed for Leicester City in 2004 for £500,000, finishing as the club's top scorer in his first season. He then joined Wigan Athletic in 2005 for £2 million, with the possibility of rising to £3 million if Wigan stayed in the Premiership, which they did.
Connolly represented the Republic of Ireland national team at international level, earning 41 caps and scoring 9 goals. He was a member of Ireland's 2002 FIFA World Cup squad that lost to Spain in the knockout stage, where his penalty kick was saved by Iker Casillas during the shootout.
Throughout his career, Connolly played for several clubs, including Watford, Feyenoord, Wimbledon, West Ham United, Leicester City, Wigan Athletic, and Sunderland. He was known for his goal-scoring ability and was a valuable asset to his teams.
Connolly's career was marked by several highlights, including his hattrick in World Cup qualifying and his penalty kick in the 2002 FIFA World Cup shootout against Spain.
After retiring from professional football, Connolly has remained involved in the sport, working as a football pundit and commentator. He has also been involved in several charity initiatives, including working with the Irish charity, Aware.
David Connolly's impressive goal-scoring record and successful career in the Premier League make him a legendary figure in Irish football. His contribution to the sport and his charity work off the pitch have cemented his legacy as a true Irish football hero.
54 Years Old
A former Manchester United midfielder and captain, known for his tenacious and dominant playing style, as well as his successful managerial career.
47 Years Old
A talented winger who played for top clubs like Chelsea and Newcastle, earning 100 caps for the Irish national team and scoring crucial goals in big tournaments.
45 Years Old
A prolific goal-scorer and captain of the Irish national team, known for his impressive skills on the pitch and iconic celebrations.
46 Years Old
A dominant and athletic defender who won 80 caps for Ireland and played for top clubs like Manchester City and Aston Villa, earning numerous individual awards.
50 Years Old
Irish defender who earned 53 caps for his country and won two FA Cups with Liverpool, known for his consistent performances and versatility on the pitch.
65 Years Old
A historian and author who explores the intersection of politics, culture, and social justice, particularly in the context of the American Civil Rights Movement.
40 Years Old
Scottish-born Irish winger who played for top-tier clubs like Celtic and Everton, known for his pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability from the left flank.
45 Years Old
Irish defender who played for Manchester United and the Republic of Ireland national team, winning multiple titles including five Premier League championships and the Champions League.
