D.O.B. :20/03/1923
Place of Birth :Rush
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In many ways, Con Martin had the misfortune of playing in the same era as Jackie Carey. Carey was a fantastic footballer, while Martin's strength and physical presence meant that while he was just as effective, he lacked the panache of the Manchester United man.
Like Carey, Martin was incredibly versatile - he even made his second appearance for Ireland as a goalkeeper - though centre back was his favoured position.
Martin was born in Rush, Co. Dublin in 1924 and played GAA in his teens and was called into the Dublin senior panel aged just 18, helping the Dubs to the Leinster title in 1942. However, at the same time as lining out for Dublin, he was also playing soccer for Drumcondra. When this was discovered, Martin was expelled from the GAA and it wasn't until 30 years later that the Association eventually agreed to award him the Leinster medal he won.
He joined Irish League side Glentoran in 1946 and was selected for Ireland's tour of Iberia in 1947. After making his debut against Portugal, he was selected in goal for the second match against Spain. His performance in a historic 1-0 win sufficiently impressed Manchester United to offer him a contract, but Leeds United offered him a contract as an outfield player at the same time and he opted for Elland Road. While Manchester United became one of the strongest sides of the time, Leeds floundered, but it didn't stop Martin winning 30 caps, the last of which was in 1956, and scoring six goals.
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Debut: 1946 v Spain
Clubs: Drumcondra, Glentoran, Leeds United, Aston Villa,Watford, Waterford
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