Paul McGrath was the surprise guest on Friday night's Late Late Show, and his appearance went down a treat with Irish viewers.
The legendary ex-centre back discussed his memories of USA '94, which he and host Patrick Kielty were both flabbergasted to realise is now 30 years ago, and a highlight reel of his immense performance at Giants Stadium against Italy was played to huge applause from the studio audience.
McGrath went on to speak of his memories of both Jack Charlton and Alex Ferguson - and their contrasting styles of management - in a brilliant if understated interview.
Perhaps most telling was a brilliant backstage clip shared on social media in the aftermath of the Late Late, which showed the true mark of the man.
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Paul McGrath hangs back to meet fans after Late Late Show appearance
In a clip reposted by RTÉ on Twitter, Paul McGrath could be seen patiently and happily waiting around after Friday night's Late Late Show with eager fans looking to get a picture.
Paul 💚#LateLate pic.twitter.com/anmbv1YotX
— The Late Late Show (@RTELateLateShow) January 19, 2024
The phrase "national treasure" is one perhaps used too often these days, but McGrath is among the most indisputable, and the above clip is proof of why.
His interview with Patrick Kielty was a fascinating watch, as McGrath recounted his memories of playing under Jack Charlton for Ireland - and his very different experience playing under Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.
McGrath looked almost embarrassed by the adulation from the crowd when a clip of the iconic USA '94 match against Italy was played - and explained the infamous injury which made that game so much more taxing for him:
I'm happy with that [the highlights reel]
I had a problem with my shoulder and I should not have been on the pitch.
My left arm was a bit knackered - but I could drag it along with me while sprinting and stuff like that. It was coming with me! I was getting away with things that day.
Phil Babb and Terry Phelan and Denis Irwin in particular were brilliant. We all just defended for our lives that day, because it was the Italians. Everyone just worked together and we got through it.
McGrath was not the only beloved Irish Paul to appear on the Late Late on Friday night.
To promote his new movie All of Us Strangers, Paul Mescal also sat down with Patrick Kielty, alongside his co-star Andrew Scott. Both have been widely acclaimed for their performances in the upcoming film, which releases in Ireland next week.
After the show, the Late Late social media team shared a photo of Mescal and McGrath hanging out backstage.
Ooh ah @Paulmcgrath5 🇮🇪#LateLate pic.twitter.com/V2qeslL7mz
— The Late Late Show (@RTELateLateShow) January 19, 2024
Paul McGrath himself took to social media to thank the team at the Late Late Show for having him on as a guest, and said he was taken aback by the positive reaction to his interview:
I'm shocked and amazed by all the lovely comments from last night.
Thanks so much to Joe Coffey and all the crew...thanks to Patrick Kielty for his kindness. Lastly thanks to my family and frends for always having my back and the people of Ireland I love you all
The feeling is mutual Paul.
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