Fifty-three international caps marked Paul Ince’s tenure with the England national team, a period that saw him become the first black player to captain the side. Born in Ilford in 1967, Ince established himself as a prominent midfielder across two decades, competing for top-tier clubs in England and Italy before transitioning into a career as a professional football manager.
Early Development and West Ham United
Ince joined West Ham United as a trainee at age 14, following a scouting discovery by manager John Lyall. He debuted in the First Division on 30 November 1986 against Newcastle United. By the 1987–88 season, he secured a regular midfield role, replacing Billy Bonds. Despite his individual performance, the club faced significant challenges, eventually suffering relegation at the end of the 1988–89 campaign.
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In September 1989, Ince finalized a £1 million transfer to Manchester United. Over a six-year tenure at Old Trafford, he secured two Premier League titles, two FA Cup trophies, and a League Cup win. He functioned as a central midfield presence, notably partnering with Bryan Robson, and contributed to the club's 1991 European Cup Winners' Cup victory against Barcelona in Rotterdam.
International Play and Italian Tenure
In 1995, Ince departed Manchester United for Inter Milan in a £7.5 million deal. During his two-year stint in Italy, he helped the club reach the 1997 UEFA Cup final. Representing England, he participated in UEFA Euro 1996, the 1998 FIFA World Cup, and Euro 2000, tallying two goals during his 53-match international career.
Later Career and Management
Following his time abroad, Ince returned to the Premier League to play for Liverpool, Middlesbrough, and Wolverhampton Wanderers. His playing career concluded in 2007 while serving as player-manager at Macclesfield Town. Subsequently, he moved into full-time management, holding positions at Blackburn Rovers, Blackpool, Reading, Notts County, and Milton Keynes Dons.
Fast facts
- Born: 1967, Ilford
- Professional playing career: 1986–2007
- England caps: 53
- Premier League titles: 2
- FA Cup wins: 2
- Clubs managed include: Blackburn Rovers, Blackpool, Reading
Questions readers ask
Did Paul Ince play for both Manchester United and Liverpool?
Yes, he is one of the few players to have represented both clubs during the Premier League era.
What was Ince's first club?
He began his professional career with West Ham United.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
