Garry Birtles - Iconic 40th Anniversary Print - A3 Print
Superb quality print to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the European Cup Winning Forest Teams of 1979 & 1980. Garry Birtles was believed to possess almost God-like powers by the great Brian Clough and had two spells at The City Ground where he achieved great success. A true Roy of the Rovers story of a carpet fitter to professional footballer.
Designs selected for the Brian Clough Executive Boxes at The City Ground. Grace your walls with the same art as Nottingham Forest FC.
Garry Birtles’ story is one of football’s great rises — from carpet fitter to European champion in just a few years. Born in Nottingham in 1956, he was discovered by Brian Clough while playing non-league football and signed by Nottingham Forest in 1976. What followed was an extraordinary journey that mirrored Forest’s own climb from the Second Division to the summit of Europe.
A powerful, hard-working striker with a tireless engine and an instinct for big moments, Birtles became a key figure in Clough’s side. He made his breakthrough in the 1978–79 season, scoring vital goals as Forest conquered the continent. His standout performances came in the European Cup run — particularly the 1979 semi-final against Köln, where his goals helped seal Forest’s place in their first European final. Just months earlier, he had been working as a joiner; now he was lifting the most prestigious trophy in club football.
Birtles won back-to-back European Cups with Forest in 1979 and 1980, as well as the European Super Cup. His work rate and determination made him a fan favourite — the embodiment of Clough’s philosophy that effort, belief, and teamwork could outmatch glamour and money.
A move to Manchester United in 1980 brought mixed fortunes, but Birtles returned to Forest in 1982, where he again became a reliable goalscorer. In total, he made over 300 appearances for the club and scored 77 goals, leaving as one of its most respected figures.
Today, Garry Birtles is remembered not just as a fine striker, but as a symbol of Nottingham Forest’s golden era — a local lad who rose from humble beginnings to play a central part in one of football’s most remarkable success stories.
Ideal for autographing and framing.
Limited Edition of 250.
Shipped in cardboard backed envelope.
