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Football icon John Giles celebrates his retirement from punditry
John Giles has celebrated his retirement from punditry at the age of 84.
The football icon's voice and insight have been a fixture in Irish broadcasting for nearly three decades with Bauer Media Audio Ireland, and for the past 23 years with Off The Ball.
His Thursday night analysis became a hallmark of the programme. John Giles as Off The Ball honoured him with a special night of celebration at Dublin's Sugar Club. Pic: Brian McEvoy
Since joining Off The Ball in 2002, he has held the distinction of being the longest-running current pundit in Irish media.
Giles is renowned for his sharp football intellect, uncompromising honesty and deep passion for the game.
Off The Ball honoured the Republic of Ireland legend with an evening of celebration. Former footballer Eddie Gray, Off The Ball's Nathan Murphy, John Giles, Off The Ball's Eoin Sheahan and Off The Ball managing director Ger Gilroy and former footballer Joe Jordan. Pic: Brian McEvoy
John Giles was joined by his wife Anne and children Joanna, Catherine, Chris and Paul.
Friends and football greats Brian Kerr, Eddie Gray and Joe Jordan were also among those who stopped by Dublin's Sugar Club for a night of nostalgia and tributes. John Giles' children Chris, Joanna, Paul and Catherine at the Off The Ball celebration. Pic: Brian McEvoy
John Giles is one of the most influential men in the history of Irish football.
A career spanning almost 70 years started with a move to Manchester United at just 15 years old in 1956.
He went on to win two league titles with Leeds United. Eddie Gray and John Giles share a laugh on stage at the celebration. Pic: Brian McEvoy
Giles represented his country 59 times as well as becoming player-manager for the national team.
He later became one of the most familiar faces on Irish television when he joined the RTÉ Sport panel as a senior pundit.
Speaking about John Giles, Ger Gilroy, managing director, Off The Ball, said: 'John Giles, senior analyst, is a titan of Irish sport.' Brian Kerr and John Giles. Pic: Brian McEvoy
'His weekly explanation of football truth on Off The Ball helped deepen what the country knows about football.'
'His ability to see through bullshit and his love of the game shone through in every contribution.' Joe Jordan, Eddie Gray, John Giles, Nathan Murphy and Eoin Sheahan. Pic: Brian McEvoy
'Off The Ball has been blessed to call John a mentor, colleague and friend for over 20 years, he set the bar for what's expected every Thursday night and we can only hope to live up to his legacy.'
'We have truly been standing on the shoulders of a giant.'
