Three greats of Irish football from pitch and screen will be in conversation at Vicar Street on April 28, as Eamon Dunphy, Liam Brady and Johnny Giles bring a special ‘Three Wise Men’ show to the Dublin venue.
The event is aid of the Irish Professional Footballers Benevolent Association (IPFBA), the organisation established 12 months ago by ex-players that offers assistance to former professionals facing health and financial challenges.
Liam and Johnny are among the finest footballers in Irish history, the former having played for Arsenal and Juventus and the latter for Manchester United and Leeds United.
Eamon also enjoyed a successful playing career, starting out in England with Manchester United and appearing 274 times for Millwall between 1965-74.
Upon retiring he embarked on what would become a legendary career as a sports broadcaster and journalist.
The trio – alongside the late Bill O’Herlihy – are considered by many in Ireland as the ultimate team of football pundits, capable of controversy, humour, falling out on screen – and lots more besides – during their coverage of the sport for RTÉ down the years.
Amongst the memorable highlights from their tenure include Eamon labelling Cristiano Ronaldo a ‘cod’, his famous pen-throwing incident following Ireland’s 1990 World Cup 0-0 draw with Egypt and their hilariously detailed analysis – magic marker and all – of the Netherlands’ Frank Rijkaard spitting at Germany forward Rudi Völler during the 1990 World Cup.
“We are thrilled that these three legends of Irish football and television punditry are reuniting for what will be a really special evening of craic, memories, strong opinion and, undoubtedly, a bit of madness!,” said IPFBA chairman Harry McCue.
“Johnny, Liam and Eamon are genuine legends of the game and their willingness to help the IPFBA will help us raise a significant five figure sum for ex-professionals who require assistance. We know that the Irish football community will be equally generous with their backing of this unique night.”
Tickets for Three Wise Men are €55 and features Eamon Dunphy, Liam Brady and John Giles are on sale now from ticketmaster.ie.