The ginger ex-player notably associated with Arsenal is Perry Groves.
Perry Groves: An Iconic Arsenal Figure
Perry Groves is an English former professional footballer who is widely recognized for his distinctive ginger hair during his playing career. Born on April 19, 1965, Groves established himself as a prominent figure at Arsenal, where he spent a significant portion of his career.
Groves joined Arsenal from Colchester United in 1986 and quickly became a fan favorite due to his energetic style of play, work rate, and undeniable passion on the pitch. He was an integral part of the Arsenal squad that achieved significant success under manager George Graham, including winning the First Division title in dramatic fashion in 1989 and again in 1991.
Key aspects of Perry Groves' career at Arsenal include:
- Period at Arsenal: 1986–1992
- Position: Winger/Forward
- Notable Achievements with Arsenal:
- First Division Title: 1988–89, 1990–91
- League Cup: Runner-up 1987–88
- Playing Style: Known for his tenacity, blistering pace, and ability to create chances from wide positions.
Groves' bright red hair made him easily identifiable on the field, cementing his image as the "ginger" player in the minds of many Arsenal supporters. His contributions, though often overshadowed by more prolific goalscorers, were crucial to the team's balance and success during a pivotal era for the club.
After leaving Arsenal, Groves went on to play for Southampton and then Dagenham & Redbridge before retiring from professional football. He has since remained a popular figure in football media, often appearing as a pundit and commentator, still retaining his recognizable ginger locks.
