Born just outside of Sheffield, Gary Cahill started life at AFC Dronfield before being scouted by Villa as a strong centre-back – not many back at that time would have touted the defender to end up with over 30 England caps; a Champions League winners medal; a Premier League title; and an FA and League Cup to his name.
When Martin O’Neill sold the young defender to Bolton in 2008 for around £4-million a lot of people were confused. Cahill was one of our best academy graduates in recent years, coming through with the likes of Gabby Agbonlahor -Cahill always looked classy, and a raw talent.
It was even more concerning when Martin O’Neill cited the reason for the sale being because Zat Knight was a better player – something that looks ridiculous looking back, especially as Zat Knight actually joined Bolton a year after Cahill.
Now, Cahill plays his football in London for Chelsea, putting in stellar performances alongside one of England’s best centre-backs John Terry. Cahill and Terry formed a formidable partnership that saw Chelsea’s defence stay on top form for all of last season. It was a catalyst to their success.
Despite all this, he didn’t leave before giving Villa fans an absolutely incredible Second City derby goal – worthy of winning goal of the season for the Villa faithful.
Thank you, Gary, even if it is just for the goal against the Blues.
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