whelan_william
A-B-C-D-E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L-M-N-O-P-Q-R-S-T-V-W-X-Y-Z |
| Click on above letter for surname of player |
| William Augustine "Billy" Whelan |
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| Name: William Augustine "Billy" Whelan |
Nationality: Republic of Ireland |
| Position: Forward |
Signing Information: Signed Trainee: 05/1953 |
| Birthdate: 01-04-1935 |
Years at Club: 1954-1958 |
| Age: (89) |
Debut: 26/03/1955 v Preston North End (A) 2-0 (League Division One) |
| Birthplace: Dublin, Ireland |
Previous clubs: |
| Height: 5' 10" (1.78m) |
Farewell to Manchester United: Died of injuries sustained in Munich Air Crash, 06/02/1958 |
| Weight: 11st 11lbs (74.84kg) |
Passed Away: 06/02/1958 |
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Liam "Billy" Whelan was an exceptionally talented Irish forward and one of Manchester United’s celebrated Busby Babes. Born in Dublin, Whelan began his career at Home Farm and joined United in 1953. He debuted in the first team in 1954, quickly establishing himself as a natural goal-scorer, known for his calm demeanor, precise shooting, and sharp positioning.
Over four seasons, Whelan scored 43 goals in 79 league appearances, playing a crucial role in United’s First Division titles in 1955-56 and 1956-57. His knack for scoring with either foot and from difficult angles made him a beloved player among fans and a key asset to Matt Busby's young team.
Whelan was deeply religious, and though he avoided alcohol and held onto a quiet, humble lifestyle, he brought vibrancy to United’s attack. His career was tragically cut short in the Munich air disaster on February 6, 1958, at just 22 years old, alongside several teammates. Remembered as one of Ireland’s brightest footballing talents, Whelan’s legacy is marked by his goal-scoring prowess and the promise he showed in the early years of Manchester United’s post-war success. His dedication, humility, and contributions to United have left a lasting impact on the club and its fans. |
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| League |
League Cup |
FA Cup |
Charity Shield |
European Cup |
Europa League |
Super Cup |
Cup Winners Cup |
Inter-Continental Cup |
World Clubs Cup |
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| No |
Season |
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Season
Goals |
Season
Apps |
| 1 |
1954-1955 |
1 |
7 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
7 |
| 2 |
1955-1956 |
4 |
13 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
13 |
| 3 |
1956-1957 |
26 |
39 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
6 |
0 |
1 |
3 |
8 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
33 |
54 |
| 4 |
1957-1958 |
12 |
20 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
14 |
24 |
| TOTALS |
43 |
79 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
6 |
0 |
2 |
5 |
11 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
52 |
98 |
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