Eamonn John Bannon (born 18 April 1958 in Edinburgh)
United Stats - 1979-1988
290 United Appearances, 71 goals
11 Scottish caps, 1 goal
Bannon began his career with Hearts before moving to Chelsea in 1979. He was bought in October 1979 by United for £165,000, a then Scottish transfer record. He made his début for United against Raith Rovers in the League Cup in a 0-0 draw but scored in his second game for the club and helped United win the Scottish League Cup, their first national trophy, in season 1979-80, repeating the feat the following season.
Bannon was again present as United narrowly lost their third consecutive Scottish League Cup final to Rangers and also lost the Scottish Cup final in the same season. The following year United won the Scottish League title for the first time, with Bannon, now the regular penalty taker, the midfield talisman. Bannon remained a key figure as United maintained a regular top five placing in succeeding seasons and was in the United side that went on to reach a European Cup semi-final. United lost in that game narrowly losing to A.S. Roma, however, it was later discovered that the referee of that game was bribed by Roma officials.
Bannon was also in the team when United reached the UEFA Cup final against IFK Göteborg, and the Scottish Cup finals of 1985, 1987 and 1988. They lost in all of these finals, which left the Scottish Cup as the only domestic trophy Bannon failed to win in his career. The 1988 Scottish Cup final defeat to Celtic was Bannon's last match for Dundee United, returning to first club Hearts and then moving to city rivals Hibs then Stenhousemuir
Bannon went on to manage Falkirk for a few months before buying a guest house in Edinburgh. Bannon played for Spartans for a couple of years before retiring at the age of 40, although he continued to coach the side. He also does matchday work for the Press Association.