Troubled former Aston Villa legend Paul McGrath arrested over assault

May 2 2010 by Jonny Greatrex, Sunday Mercury

Paul McGrath in action for Aston Villa.

TROUBLED former Aston Villa star Paul McGrath has been arrested over an alleged assault in the Irish Republic.

The 50-year-old ex-defender, who has faced a long battle with alcohol problems, was quizzed by cops after a farmer made a complaint he had been attacked.

The alleged assault took place in the tiny village of Fern where McGrath now lives.

A spokesman for the Irish police force Garda said: “A 50 year-old man had been arrested in relation to the alleged incident and a file was being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.”

Last night, former soccer colleagues offered their support to the troubled star, including ex-Ireland team-mate and current Ipswich Town manager Roy Keane.

“I have a lot of time for Paul. I spoke to him just a few months ago,” said the ex-Manchester United skipper.

“No one likes to see an ex-team mate struggle and if it was simply down to everyone wishing him well, then he’d be fine.

“We all know that Paul wants to get well but he also knows where to get help.

“In the end, it doesn’t matter what I say, or what anyone else says, it’s up to Paul, he has to help himself.”

McGrath played 313 times for Villa after being signed for £400,000 from Manchester United by Graham Taylor.