Just remembered going to watch him play for Rep of Ireland under 21s v England under 21's at Griffin Park, Brentford. I only went to see Paul McCarthy although as I recall Roy Keane also played in that match.
I do remember whilst in the North stand we were all singing ' If you hate Bellotti clap your hands' the players were just about to start and whilst stretching Paul was bent down and clapped his hands always remember that.
Brighton and Hove Albion's DNA seems to be based on centre backs who are a class above the rest of the team.
No matter what the strengths or weaknesses are around them, we 'do' centre backs.
Those older than me can go further back than Mark Lawrenson, but he is just about my starting point, for an incredibly long list that's as relevant today as it has ever been.
Paul was a class apart for the Albion, and in my mind at least, has always been one of the best, in a position which we have been spoiled rotten, for the best part of 40 years.
Sad news, as others have said one of the few shining lights during 'that' period. Always gave everything on the pitch and just a surprise he didn't move on to bigger things.
All the recent celebrity deaths over the last 2 years combined haven't moved me as much as upon hearing this news. Was part of the Brighton team when I first started watching us and was surprised he never played in the top flight he was that comfortable in what he did on the pitch (Although he nearly made it with us). Gennually shocked and saddened.
Paul was my brother in law , the whole family is devastated , all my thoughts are with my sister and their four young girls at this extremely sad time. He was a brilliant servant to Brighton , coming over from Cork at a very young age , and making his way to through to the 1st team , he had a long career with Brighton , Wycombe , Oxford and then finally at Ebbsfleet.
Away from football he was great company and anyone who met him , or had a beer with would only have good words to say ,
On behalf of his family I would like to thank everyone for their kind words
Don't forget that as well as playing in the tough times he also gave us some great memories, the run to the 1991 playoff final, and the 2-2 draw at Anfield, when it was a foul on him that gave us the penalty that put us back in the game. RIP an Albion great.