Gary Mabbutt is the most famous of an illustrious footballing family, both brother and father playing the game at a professional level. Gary is a famously loyal footballer who has become a fan favourite and icon at his clubs Bristol Rovers, and most famously, Tottenham Hotspur.

Mabbutt started his career in 1979 playing for Bristol Rovers. As a young man, he made 131 appearances for the club, and gained his reputation as a defensive minded player, though he was seen in all manor of defensive and midfield roles. He scored 10 goals for Rovers before being snapped up in 1982 by Spurs.

Gary is most famous for his time at Tottenham Hotspur. Having joined the club as a youngster, he went on to cement his place and become an integral part of the Spurs squad, winning his first silverware in 1984 as the North Londoners won the UEFA cup. One of the most famous moments of his career was the 1987 FA Cup final, Mabbutt scored for Spurs before scoring an own goal to secure Coventry’s win, but he did eventually get his hands on the trophy, captaining Tottenham to their 1991 FA Cup trophy. Mabbutt stayed with Spurs for a quite brilliant 16 years, eventually retiring due to injury in 1998.

Mabbutt played 16 times for his country, England, and scored for them once, against Yugoslavia in 1986. He also wore the three lions for England’s U21s and B team.

Gary has type 1 diabetes, and has become a role model for many people with the disease. He once appeared on BBC’s Blue Peter where he helped explain his condition and how he combats it to watching children. He also made an appearance on ‘The Queen’s Nose’ – playing himself in an episode featuring a local football team.

Mabbutt was an ambassador for the South Africa world cup, and currently does a lot of charity work out there. Mabbutt is a model pro and a superb role model for anyone looking to get into the beautiful game.

Gary Mabbutt, The North Stand salutes you!