West Bromwich Albion hero Gareth McAuley has expressed his gratitude after being inducted into the Northern Ireland Football Writers' Association Hall of Fame, describing the recognition as 'really humbling'.
The 46-year-old former defender, who made 227 appearances for the Baggies across seven Premier League seasons, was honoured for his outstanding contributions to football both at club and international level.
International Career Highlights
McAuley earned 80 caps for Northern Ireland and was a pivotal figure in the squad that reached the last 16 of the 2016 European Championship in France. He scored a memorable goal in the 2-0 group stage victory over Ukraine, which secured qualification for the knockout rounds. However, his campaign ended in heartbreak when an unfortunate own goal allowed Wales to progress in the round of 16.
Reflecting on the honour, McAuley said: 'It's very pleasing and an honour to be inducted into the Football Writers' Hall of Fame. The Euros was ten years ago, and I've been retired nearly seven years, so to be remembered and recognised in this way is really humbling.'
Club Legacy at West Brom
McAuley joined Albion on a free transfer from Ipswich Town in 2011, a move widely regarded as one of the club's best signings. He formed formidable defensive partnerships with Jonas Olsson, Craig Dawson, and Jonny Evans, and contributed 17 goals for the club, often posing a threat from set pieces.
After leaving West Brom, McAuley spent a season with Rangers before retiring in 2019. Later that year, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire for services to football in Northern Ireland. He currently serves as the manager of Northern Ireland's under-19s team.
Hall of Fame Inductees
McAuley was inducted alongside former Northern Ireland women's captain Marissa Callaghan, who led her team to their first European Championship in 2022. They join illustrious company in the Hall of Fame, including George Best, Harry Gregg, David Healy, and Steven Davis.
