Gary Blackledge – Glenavon FC (02/10/1990)

Here is a vintage relic of exceptional rarity, a testament to European clashes against French clubs. This match-worn jersey was donned by Northern Irish forward Gary Blackledge during the second leg of the UEFA Cup Round of 32 match between Girondins de Bordeaux and Glenavon FC at Parc Lescure.

Match Context: Glenavon's Impossible Feat Against Gili's Bordeaux

After creating a sensation in the first leg at home, holding the Bordeaux stars to a draw (0-0), the modest Glenavon FC traveled to Gironde with the wild hope of achieving a historic feat against Gérard Gili's formidable team. On the field, the task was unfortunately too great for the valiant visitors. The British defense eventually broke under the talent of French international Jean-Marc Ferreri, followed that evening by the club's promising young player, Christophe Dugarry. Solid and serious, Bordeaux won (2-0) and ended Glenavon's European adventure after a match played in an impeccable spirit.

Gary Blackledge: The Northern Irish Number 9 Against the Scapular

A true control tower and focal point of the Lurgan Blues' attack, Northern Irishman Gary Blackledge had the heavy task of challenging Bordeaux's central defense in the heart of the Lescure arena. Wearing his legendary number 9, the center-forward engaged in a constant physical battle, multiplying aerial duels to try and unsettle the Gironde defense. Exchanged at the final whistle, as is the great European tradition, this vintage jersey is an ultra-original and unfindable collector's item that perfectly embodies the unique charm of bygone European Cups.