Preston North End star breaks his European Championship qualifying record…

David Healy, a former Preston North End striker, has lost his European Championship qualifying record to Romelu Lukaku.

 

PNE supporters of a particular age may recall the excitement around the acquisition of David Healy.

North End set a new transfer record when they signed Healy from Manchester United for £1.5 million, which was later increased to £1.8 million.

Healy made an immediate impression, netting his first goal against Sheffield United.

The Northern Irishman made more than 150 appearances for PNE, scoring 45 goals.

Due to his 2004 departure to Leeds United, Healy became a villain in the eyes of many PNE supporters.

Healy appeared to wave to Leeds fans at Elland Road as North End lost 1-0, with speculation surrounding his potential move to Yorkshire. Leeds completed the move, and Healy then celebrated in front of the Alan Kelly Town End upon his first return to Deepdale, scoring twice in a 4-2 Leeds win.

David Healy’s European Championship qualifying record gone

Healy went on to play for the likes of Fulham, Sunderland, Ipswich Town and Rangers before a return to the North End was floated.

Graham Westley decided against a deal, realizing that bringing Healy back could divide the fanbase.

Healy has since gone into management, winning five league titles in charge of Linfield in his native Northern Ireland.

Just a few years after leaving PNE, Healy set a European Championship qualifying record.

The striker smashed 13 goals for Northern Ireland in qualifying for Euro 2008, setting a record for the most goals scored in a Euro qualifying campaign.

 

 

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