Niall Quinn was an absolute dream to manage, says Brian Horton

Brian Horton, the former City boss, has praised Niall Quinn as an "absolute dream to manage" and a "top, top player" during his time at the club between 1994 and 1996. Quinn, a former Blues and Republic of Ireland striker, made 244 appearances for City over a six-year period, scoring 77 goals. Horton got to know Quinn well during his tenure as City manager, and he appreciated Quinn's many qualities, both on and off the field.

Horton recalls that Quinn was injured with a serious cruciate ligament injury when he took over as City manager, a blow that he knew was significant. However, he soon discovered that Quinn was not just a top player and a quality international, but also a top all-round guy. He was brilliant in the dressing room with all the lads, having a fantastic aura about him. Quinn was also a very intelligent footballer, able to pull off defenders and give himself time and space. Men's Team Happy 60th birthday, Niall Quinn

Quinn's professionalism, intelligence, and charisma were evident to Horton, who noted that all the senior players, including Tony Coton, Keith Curle, and Niall Quinn, were good professionals who were easy to manage. Horton was impressed by Quinn's ability to listen to what the management had to say and his pleasant demeanor. Men's Team Quinn hails Kendall influence in City career

After leaving City, Quinn achieved further success as a player with Sunderland and later as the club's chairman. He also worked as a TV pundit with Sky and undertook fundraising efforts for various charities, including helping to build a children's centre at City Hospitals Sunderland. For Horton, Quinn's achievements later in his career were a testament to his intelligence and brilliance as a person, making him a pleasure to manage throughout his career.