First Team
All The Info | Rangers (A)
22nd November 2024
As we continue our United for 100 Years celebrations, we’re asking supporters to vote for their ultimate UTD100 starting XI - with Paul Sturrock set to lead the line!
VOTE FOR THE HEROES YOU'D LIKE TO SEE US INCLUDE ON OUR X FEED!
Born in Ellon, Paul showcased his football talent in Perthshire. Trials with Greenock Morton and St Johnstone preceded his signing with United in 1974.
At just 17, he debuted in the European Cup Winners' Cup against CS Jiul Petro?ani, marking the start of a prolific career.
Sturrock swiftly became a mainstay in Jim McLean's squad, emerging as the club's top scorer by 1976/77 and earning international recognition. United began winning honours under McLean, securing their first-ever trophy in 1979, the Scottish League Cup, and repeating the feat the following year.
The climax of his career arrived in early 80s, with his contributions leading to United's inaugural Scottish Premier League trophy in 1982/83 - chipping in with 16 goals in our title-winning campaign.
A memorable moment for Sturrock came south of the border when he equalised for United against their Manchester namesake in the 1984/85 UEFA Cup, with a crowd of 48,278 watching on at Old Trafford.
Injuries temporarily halted his career, but the diminutive forward made a notable return to the starting XI throughout our 1986/87 UEFA Cup run as the Terrors made it all the way to the Final.
His final match as a player came in 1989, with a strike against Dundee sealing his status as the all-time top goal-scorer in the derby and second all-time at the club behind Peter McKay.
Sturrock transitioned to coaching and management after retiring and was inducted into our Hall of Fame in January 2010, cementing his place in the club's history.
