Aston Villa legend and European Cup winner Gary Shaw dies aged 63 after fall

Gary Shaw, an Aston Villa legend and European Cup winner, who passed away at the age of 63.

Shaw, who was a pivotal figure in Aston Villa’s historic triumphs in the early 1980s, died from injuries sustained in a fall at his home in Birmingham.

Born in Solihull, Shaw’s career with Aston Villa was nothing short of remarkable.

He joined the club as an apprentice and quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut in the 1978-79 season. Shaw’s partnership with Peter Withe was instrumental in Villa’s success, leading the team to win the First Division title in 1981 and the European Cup in 1982.

Shaw scored 79 goals in 213 appearances for Villa, earning accolades such as named PFA Young Player of the Year in 1981 and the Bravo Award in 1982.

Aston Villa released a statement expressing their profound sadness: "Aston Villa Football Club is deeply shocked and profoundly saddened to learn that Gary Shaw, one of our European Cup-winning heroes, has passed away. Gary was one of our own, a talented striker who delighted supporters with his goalscoring exploits which helped fire Villa to success in the 1980s. He passed away peacefully earlier today surrounded by his family, who asked Aston Villa to release a statement on their behalf. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Gary’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time".

Shaw’s career was not without its challenges. A serious knee injury in 1983 hampered his progress, but he continued to play for Villa until 1988. He later had spells with Blackpool, Walsall, Kilmarnock, and Shrewsbury Town before retiring in 1992.

Post-retirement, Shaw worked as a statistical analyst and served as a club ambassador at Villa Park.

Tributes have poured in from fans, former teammates, and the football community, all remembering Shaw as a gifted striker and a beloved figure at Aston Villa.

As his legacy as a key player in one of the club’s most successful eras is cherished by many.

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