The legend that is Noel Bailie MBE turns 51 today (Wednesday).
Bailie is Irish League royalty, a Linfield icon who dedicated his entire career to the Blues.
The former defender made an astonishing 1013 appearances during a 25-year-spell at Windsor Park.
Included in his medal haul is 10 Irish League titles and eight Irish Cup wins, not to mention seven League Cups, six County Antrim Shields, three Charity Shields, two Gold Cups and the all-Ireland Setanta Sports Cup.
He was the football writers' Player of the Year in 1994, and in 2013 he was awarded an MBE which was presented by the Queen.
Bailie played alongside some legendary players himself, but he remains the icon they all look up to.
Former defender Pat McShane heaped praise on Linfield's most esteemed captain.
He posted a brilliant tribute on Twitter saying: "The greatest player to grace local football. Stats are on another level, among the best in world football.
"To think he's such a humble man, great friend. Just the down to earth guy he always was. Happy birthday skipper LEGEND."
Former longstanding Linfield coach Alfie Wylie added: "Happy Birthday Noel not only a great player but a great gentleman who always had time for everyone . A true legend."
Bailie called time on his career back in 2011 having won 37 trophies.
The club retired the number 11 jersey after he stepped down, a fitting tribute to a football legend.
Tough-tackling full-back McShane spent 14 years at Linfield, claiming a total of 21 trophies including six Irish League titles and four Irish Cup wins.
He made 53 appearances in Linfield’s Clean Sweep season of 2005-06.
