Gary Shaw: A Villa Legend Remembered

As a lifelong Aston Villa fan, the news of Gary Shaw's passing hit me hard. He was a hero of my childhood, a player who epitomized the spirit of the club. I remember watching him score goals with that trademark swivel and volley, and his enthusiasm was infectious.
Born in Birmingham in 1961, Shaw joined Villa as a schoolboy in 1978. He made his first-team debut in 1981, and quickly became a crowd favorite. He was part of the team that won the European Cup in 1982, and scored in the semi-final against RSC Anderlecht.
Shaw was a versatile forward who could play anywhere across the front line. He was known for his pace, skill, and eye for goal. He scored 59 goals in 165 appearances for Villa, and also represented England at youth level.
After leaving Villa in 1988, Shaw had a successful career in the lower leagues. He retired from playing in 1998, and went on to work as a coach and a pundit.
Shaw was a true Villa legend, and his death is a great loss to the club and to the world of football. He will be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever wear the claret and blue.
In honor of Gary Shaw, I've decided to share a few of my favorite memories of him.
One of my favorite memories of Shaw was from the 1982 European Cup semi-final against Anderlecht. Villa were losing 2-0 at half-time, but Shaw came on as a substitute and scored a stunning goal to give Villa the lead. Villa went on to win the game 3-2, and Shaw's goal was the turning point.
Another one of my favorite memories of Shaw was from the 1986 League Cup final. Arsenal has taken an early lead, but Shaw scored two goals to give Villa a 2-1 victory. It was a great day for Villa fans, and Shaw was the hero.
Gary Shaw was a true legend, and he will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Gary.