'Winning the treble the highlight' - Coyle
A former target of Manchester United and Benfica, Liam Coyle has certainly had a long and varied career, but admitted this morning, following news of his retirement, that winning the treble with Derry City in 1989 was his career highlight.
“I had a chat with the boss Gavin Dykes and the chairman Jim Roddy and I’m delighted with the result,” admitted the 35-year-old, who is due to take on a chief scouting role at the Brandywell.
“I’ve been playing the game for 17 years and enjoyed some magnificent occasions, but I’ve just completed a difficult season where my injuries prevented me from playing a full part with Derry.”
Coyle’s career looked to be over as early as 1990, when a serious knee injury forced him, at the age of 21, to retire, but thanks to a local faith healer he was soon back on the pitch and went on to become Derry City’s all-time top scorer with 112 goals.
The 1989 season was arguably his best ever, earning a cap for Northern Ireland and starring in the Candystripes’ treble-winning side.
Having interested United and Benfica with his performances, injury ruled out a move abroad, but he continued to win honours at home, with another league medal in 1997 and FAI Cup titles in 1995 and 2002.
“There have been many ups and downs,” said the striker, who scored a hat-trick on his debut 15 years ago, “but winning the treble with Derry in 1989 stands out.
"I’ve been blessed to play for such a great club and the players and coaches throughout my years here in the league.”
Coyle made almost 400 competitive appearances for City.
