Soccer stars in Limerick for McAteer’s big day

FORMER Irish and Liverpool soccer star Jason McAteer has wed in Limerick – and celebrated in style with some of the best known names in international football.

When word leaked out on social media about the big wedding, fans started legging it to St Mary’s Cathedral on Saturday.

McAteer, wed his long time love Lucy Edwards, and best man was Paul O’Donnell - no relation to the Geraldines manager who also signed for Liverpool when he was a schoolboy.

There was a host of celebrities at the Limerick wedding including former Ireland team-mates John Aldrige and Ronnie Whelan, and Steve McManaman, who played for Liverpool and Real Madrid.

McMannaman was one of the ushers at the wedding which later retired to Dromoland Castle where the couple’s family and friends celebrated into the night.

At the height of his career McAteer was among the most exciting talents in England.

Last year he was being linked with the Limerick soccer manager’s job, though a trip to Thomond Park was certainly not on his agenda during his visit at the weekend.

McAteer played more than 50 times for Ireland and was a key member of the World Cup squads under Jack Charlton, scoring three international goals in the green of his country. His total transfer value reached over £9 million.

He came on a substitute in the famous win over Italy and at 42 years of age plays regularly for Liverpool Legends in various charity matches.