Midfielder who played for Aston Villa and England, winning the European Cup in 1982 and earning 42 international caps.
Gordon Cowans is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Aston Villa's history, a midfielder with unparalleled skill, vision, and flair who won numerous honors with the club, including the European Cup, League Championship, and League Cup. With his exceptional two-footed ability, Cowans was a nightmare for opponents, capable of scoring crucial goals and providing pinpoint assists that consistently changed the course of games.
Born on October 27, 1958, in County Durham, Cowans joined Aston Villa as an apprentice in 1973, at just 15 years old. He quickly made his mark, helping the club's youth team win the FA Youth Cup and earning a spot in the England youth team.
Cowans made his first-team debut for Villa in 1976, as a substitute, and rapidly established himself as a regular starter. In 1979, he was voted PFA Young Player of the Year, a testament to his rapid rise to prominence. During the 1980-81 season, Cowans played a crucial role in Villa's League Championship triumph, and the following season, he was instrumental in their European Cup victory against Bayern Munich.
Cowans earned 10 caps for England, scoring two goals against Scotland and Egypt. His international career was marked by his exceptional vision and passing ability, which made him a valuable asset for the national team.
After retiring as a player, Cowans returned to Aston Villa in a coaching capacity, initially working with the club's youth academy before becoming first-team coach and later reserve team manager. His experience and expertise proved invaluable to the club's younger players.
Cowans' contribution to Aston Villa's success cannot be overstated. He is regularly cited as one of the club's greatest players, and his achievements continue to inspire generations of Villa fans. His legacy extends beyond his playing career, with his coaching expertise helping to develop the next generation of talent at the club.
"Gordon was the best two-footed player I ever played with. He was capable of tough tackling and making spectacular assists." - Derek Mountfield, former Aston Villa teammate
Gordon Cowans' remarkable career serves as a testament to his dedication, passion, and exceptional ability. As a player, coach, and ambassador, he has left an indelible mark on Aston Villa and English football as a whole.
74 Years Old
A former professional footballer who won the European Cup with Aston Villa in 1982 and earned 17 caps for England. He's also known for his post-playing career as a football pundit and commentator.
69 Years Old
Scottish footballer who played as a defender for clubs like West Bromwich Albion and Aston Villa, earning 4 caps for Scotland's national team.
74 Years Old
A Scottish football legend who played for Manchester United and Leeds United, and later managed several clubs, including Airdrieonians and Queens Park Rangers.
78 Years Old
Goalkeeper who won numerous titles with Liverpool and Tottenham, earning 61 England caps, and later managed Tottenham and Barnet.
79 Years Old
A skilled and versatile defender who won numerous honors with Liverpool and the English national team, known for his tough tackling and leadership on the pitch.
72 Years Old
A legendary English footballer and manager who won the European Cup with Nottingham Forest in 1979 and later managed several clubs, including Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham City.
