A bargain at £400,000 when signed from Manchester United in August 1989 by Graham Taylor.

McGrath was an instant success at Villa Park. Macca won plenty of admirers for his classy defending and commitment to the cause.

He helped Villa to First Division runners-up spot in his first season.

Two years later the Republic of Ireland international ace was named PFA Player of the Year for his commanding displays at the heart of Villa's defence.

He was just as impressive the following season as Villa finished runners-up to Manchester United in the first ever Premiership season.

Written off by many 'experts' when he moved to Villa, McGrath went onto make 322 appearances in Claret and Blue.

Top-class and the nickname 'God' says it all. Paul moved on to Derby County where he spent one season, before ending his career at Sheffield United.