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Notts Alumni: Paul Devlin


Chris

Born on 14 April 1972 in Erdington, Birmingham, Paul John Devlin carved out an impressive football career that spanned two decades. 

Known for his versatility as a midfielder and forward, Devlin made over 500 appearances across the Football League, Premier League, and League of Ireland, earning ten caps for the Scotland national team along the way. 

His journey from non-league football to the top tiers of English football is a testament to his determination, skill, and love for the game.

Growing up in the Perry Common area of Birmingham, Devlin was an ardent footballer from a young age, playing for local teams Boldmere St. Michaels, St John's Celtic, and Tamworth. 

After a brief spell at Tamworth, where he made 12 first-team appearances as a teenager, Devlin found himself without a club. However, his persistence paid off when he joined Armitage 90 in the Staffordshire Senior League. 

His performances caught the eye of Stafford Rangers, who secured his services for £2,000 in 1990. During his time at Stafford, Devlin attracted the attention of top-flight clubs, leading to a trial with Liverpool. 

Although a potential move to Anfield fell through, Notts County swooped in with a £60,000 bid in February 1992, marking the start of Devlin's professional career.

Devlin's arrival at Notts in 1992 saw the young midfielder gradually break into the first team. 

Despite the club's relegation to the second tier at the end of his debut season, Devlin established himself as a key player. 

Over the next few seasons, he became a fan favourite, known for his work rate, skill, and knack for scoring crucial goals. 

In the 1993-94 season, he was instrumental in the Magpies' run to the Anglo-Italian Cup final, where they narrowly lost to Brescia. 

The following season, Devlin helped the club win the Anglo-Italian Cup, providing the cross for the winning goal in the final against Ascoli. 

However, after the club's relegation to the third tier in 1995, Devlin sought a new challenge, and in March 1996, he was sold to Birmingham City.

Returning to his hometown, Devlin quickly became a fan favourite at Birmingham. He made an immediate impact, scoring twice in his home debut against Wolverhampton Wanderers. 

His first full season saw him finish as the club's top scorer with 19 goals, earning him the Player of the Season award. However, a fallout with manager Trevor Francis led to Devlin's departure to Sheffield United in 1998.

At United, Devlin continued to impress, becoming the club's Player of the Year for the 1999-2000 season. His combative style and ability to find the back of the net made him a valuable asset. 

However, by 2002, Devlin was yearning for a return to Birmingham, and his wish was granted when he rejoined the club on loan before making the move permanent. 

His return was marked by a pivotal role in Birmingham's promotion to the Premier League, where he scored the club's first-ever Premier League goal at St Andrew's.

As new signings at St Andrew's pushed him down the pecking order, Devlin moved to Watford in 2003, where he played a crucial role during his two-year stint. 

A brief spell at Walsall followed, before Devlin ventured to the League of Ireland with Bohemians, where he played until the manager who signed him was dismissed. 

Devlin then returned to non-league football, turning out for several clubs, including a return to Tamworth and stints with Halesowen Town and Stratford Town, before retiring from the professional game.

Despite being born in England, Devlin qualified to play for Scotland through his father, and he earned his first cap at the age of 30 in 2002. 

Over the next year, he made ten appearances for Scotland, fulfilling a lifelong dream by playing at Hampden Park in front of his family. 

His final appearance for Scotland came in 2003, marking the end of a brief but proud international career.

Paul Devlin's career is a story of grit, determination, and a deep love for football. 

From the non-league pitches of Staffordshire to the bright lights of the Premier League, he remained a player who gave his all for every club he represented. 

For Notts fans, he will always be remembered as a young, tenacious player who played a crucial part in the club's history during the early 1990s. 

His journey through the leagues, coupled with his international exploits, serves as an inspiration to many aspiring footballers. 

As a player, coach, and mentor, Devlin's influence on the game continues to be felt, long after his playing days have ended.

Dive into the Pride of Nottingham alumni article, featuring the legendary Notts County striker, Tom Keetley! Don’t miss out on this piece of football history.

Explore our Alumni Series on Pride of Nottingham, celebrating the greats of Notts County! Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments!



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TheSkipper

Posted

Paul Devlin is a name I know from his time in the Premier League. Before I was born, he played for Notts County. I've watched clips of Paul playing and enjoyed them. I remember him playing for Birmingham City when I was young. My father told me he used to play for Notts County. Paul always looked like a reliable and determined player. I'm glad he played for Scotland.

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Robbie

Posted

Paul began is professional career at Notts, became a fan favourite & a key player too 

He left for pastures new & became a favourite everywhere he went & went on to have a successful club & international career.

We have seen that same scenario at Notts over the many years I've been supporting Notts. 

Notts discover gems, who do well for us before joining other clubs where they flourish too. 

I wish Notts could have held on to players like Paul, but still glad that he helped us win the Ango Italian Cup.

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allardyces tash

Posted

When Paul Devlin signed for Notts County, there was a lot of excitement and hope for success. Sometimes he played scrappy football, but he was a very good player who enjoyed the club's success in the early 1990s. He was part of a group of young players, like Tommy Johnson, Mark Draper, and Michael Johnson, who were destined for success in football. His career was long and successful, and Birmingham City fans remember his performances fondly. He is also fondly remembered by Notts County fans.

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upthepies

Posted

Paul Devlin was a great player. I was disappointed when Notts County let him go, but it was the right decision for Devlin. He found a home at Birmingham City, and I believe his time at Notts County gave him the confidence to further his career. It was always exciting to see his name on the teletext when he scored or when the final scores were updated.

  • Like 18
NiftyNick

Posted

Paul Devlin's journey from non-league football to the Premier League is truly inspirational. A great read!

  • Like 18
liampie

Posted

i have seen paul devlin interacting with fans on social media and he seems a very down to earth ex footballer, who has a mutual love for notts. i never knew he had a trial with liverpool, it shows that there was thought he would go on and i think tamworth probably helped to keep him focused in having a career in football. his ability to play in different areas seems to have been a plus too, great to read this!

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Joshua

Posted

This is a great article about Paul Devlin, a former Notts player. I like reading about former players because it helps me understand their impact at Meadow Lane. He seems to be a popular player among fans, and I've seen him interacting with fans on social media. I've seen him play for Birmingham City on Sky Sports, and he looked skilled and difficult to play against.

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CliftonMagpie

Posted

He's before my time too, but I'm very familiar with the name Paul Devlin. He played for Notts for a decent amount of time, so I'm not surprised that he's well-liked and considered a club legend. I haven't seen him play, but I think this article gives a good insight into him as a player.

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RetroPie

Posted

Paul Devlin's career is a brilliant example of resilience and passion. From his early days at Tamworth to his pivotal role in Notts County's successes and eventual move to Birmingham, his journey was marked by perseverance. His influence was evident both on and off the pitch, making significant contributions to every team he played for. His story serves as a great inspiration to aspiring footballers, showing that with dedication and hard work, dreams can become reality.

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The Heff

Posted

Paul Devlin's career is nothing short of remarkable. Starting from non-league football and working his way up to the Premier League, his journey is a testament to true grit and determination.

His time at Notts laid a solid foundation for his future achievements, and it's evident that he made a significant impact during his tenure there. The Anglo-Italian Cup run was especially memorable, showcasing his ability to perform on bigger stages.

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Blake

Posted

I knew little before this, but now I can understand why fans who watched him play for us still talk about him. My grandfather said many of the best memories from the 90s came from games Devo played in. I assume Devo was his nickname, and that he should have stayed as a striker. I feel like I know a lot more now.

  • Like 18
BromPie

Posted

Paul Devlin's career is a brilliant mix of talent, hard work, and perseverance. His journey from the non-league pitches to the Premier League is truly inspiring. The fact that he earned ten caps for Scotland, despite being born in England, adds an international flair to his story. It's amazing to see how he became a key player at every club he joined, particularly at Notts County and Birmingham. His ability to adapt and shine even when the odds were against him speaks volumes about his character. This article is a fantastic tribute to a remarkable career.

  • Like 5
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NottsCountyKev

Posted

I'm always thrilled to read about former players who went on to great things, and Paul Devlin is one of the best examples. His journey from Tamworth to the heights of English football is truly inspirational. His stellar performance at Notts County and his memorable stints at Birmingham City and Sheffield United show what a versatile and determined player he was. The fact that he even earned caps for Scotland is just the icing on the cake. This article captures his career beautifully and reminds us all of his outstanding contributions to the game.

  • Love 17
themightymagpies

Posted

Paul Devlin was a top player! He was a real workhorse for Notts County during those great early-to-mid 90s. He could score and create goals, making him a valuable asset. He did brilliantly for Birmingham City and Sheffield United too, always giving his all on the pitch. By the time he reached Walsall, he might have been past his peak, but it's a shame they didn't keep him longer.

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StanfordPie

Posted

Reading this article brought back so many memories of Paul Devlin's time at Notts. His combative style and knack for finding the back of the net were precisely what the team needed. His legacy at the club remains strong, especially with his role in the Premier League promotion. Devlin's story is a beautiful reminder of what passion and dedication can achieve in football. Thanks for such a detailed recap of his career!

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NottsLoyal

Posted

Paul Devlin came to Notts County and earned the admiration of our fans with his performance and dedication. He moved through the ranks and eventually played for Birmingham City. Devlin continued to impress with his goal-scoring ability and hard work. His international appearances with Scotland were the icing on the cake of an already impressive career. Devlin's story will continue to inspire football fans and players for many years to come. He is truly a legend.

  • Love 5
Fan of Big Tone

Posted

@Blake your grandad is right “Devo” was his nickname and when he scored his name would ring around the ground “DEVO, DEVO, DEVO”, he was a very tenacious, gritty player who would get stuck in.

It was a sad day when he was sold by the then chairman Derek Pavis to Birmingham along with another fans favourite Andy Legg.

  • Like 1
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