Andy Blair (footballer)

Andy Blair (born 18 December 1959) is a Scottish former footballer, who spent his career in English football. The highlight of his career was playing in the Villa team that beat Barcelona 3-0 at Villa Park to win the European Super Cup.

Career

Born in Kirkcaldy, Fife, Blair grew up in Bedworth, Warwickshire, and was educated at Nicholas Chamberlaine School in the town. He made his league debut for Coventry City, whom he had joined as an apprentice, on 28 October 1978 in a 2-1 win against Birmingham City. He also played top-flight football at Aston Villa (in two separate spells) and Sheffield Wednesday, respectively, and on loan at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

In November 1984, while playing for Sheffield Wednesday against Luton Town, he achieved the unusual distinction of being the first player to ever score a hat-trick of penalties in the League Cup.

He also appeared for Barnsley and Northampton Town before playing in Malta for Naxxar Lions later returning to England to play for a number of non-league teams, including Kidderminster Harriers. In 1989, he opened a small chain of self-named shops across Coventry, selling sports clothing, sports goods, and school uniforms. The business was acquired by Sporting Success Ltd in 2007 and the stores continue to trade in 2012 He is currently working as a scout for Stoke City.

Personal life

Blair's son Matty also played for Kidderminster Harriers, and currently plays for League Two side Fleetwood Town.

Career honours

As a player

Winner

• 1981–82 European Cup