Derry City manager sends special 90th birthday greetings to club legend Willie Curran

Born on May 17th 1930, the former centre-half was the lone Derry-born player in the famous 1954 Irish Cup winning team.

Willie celebrated his milestone birthday at his Beechwood Avenue home with family members who presented him with a Derry City cake and a portrait of his late wife, Elizene.

Derry City also presented him with the club's home shirt with his name and the number five on the back.

Due to Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, those friends and family unable to visit, joined Willie on a Zoom meeting to help him celebrate his big day.

And City boss, Devine sent the City stalwart a special birthday greeting on Twitter describing Willie as 'an unbelievable servant to the club'.

"Willie, happy 90th birthday," said Devine. "I hope you're having a good day and I hope you're getting spoiled rotten as I'm sure you will be with that wonderful family of yours.

"But on behalf of everybody, not just the staff and players, but everyone connected with Derry City Football Club we wish you nothing but the best for your birthday.

"You've been an unbelievable servant to the club in terms of your playing, captaining the club, the support and help you give in your fundraising departments.

"Your support is so welcome," continued the City supremo. "We love seeing you at the Brandywell. Hopefully it won't be too long until we're back there again.

"We have a big meeting tomorrow, it's about the top four playing in a tournament at the end of July so hopefully that's a positive one for us.

"More importantly have a great day. Sorry I couldn't take your card up to you myself today. No doubt we will see each other very soon and I just want to wish you, on behalf of everyone, a wonderful day and a happy 90th birthday Willie. Take care. Look forward to seeing you soon."

Originally from the Lecky Road, Curran joined Derry City as a 14 year-old in 1944 and became a club icon.

He was inducted into Derry City's Hall of Fame in February 2019 and was the club's first recipient of the Lifetime Volunteer Award which highlighted his invaluable contributions to the Brandywell club.

Willie has worked tirelessly for decades on the club's Development Committee, Programme Committee and in almost every venture the club volunteers have come up with over the past half century.