#3 Denis Irwin
Regarded as one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s shrewdest signings, Irish full-back Denis Joseph Irwin made a move to Old Trafford after spending four fruitful seasons with Oldham Athletic. He cost the Red Devils a paltry £625,000, when he moved from Oldham, certainly not big money in today’s transfer world.
His brilliant attacking attributes combined with his solid defensive techniques made him a feared footballer. Irwin was an expert at free kicks and penalties, and even in his mid-thirties, Ferguson preferred the former taking the majority of the set pieces despite the presence of Ryan Giggs and David Beckham.
Irwin made 529 appearances in a twelve-year career at Old Trafford, a feat which has only been bested by seven other Manchester United players. He left for Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2002 with Premier League titles, three FA cups, and a Champions League winner’s medal.
