Paul Power hails Watson as complete centre-half at 80

Paul Power has described former Manchester City and England defender Dave Watson as "the complete centre-back," as Watson celebrates his 80th birthday.

Watson joined City from Sunderland in the summer of 1975, at a time when Power was just beginning his own career at the club. Power went on to make 445 appearances for City over more than a decade, placing him 10th on the club's all-time list.

"Dave Watson was a complete centre-back for me," Power said. "He was an absolute powerhouse on the field - he was an athlete and was totally fearless."

Power highlighted Watson's all-round qualities, both physical and mental. "He had strength, he had power, he had pace. And he also had the mental ability in that he instinctively knew how to manage any situation."

Watson earned 65 England caps and captained his country, a record Power cited as evidence of his character. "You don't get sixty-five England caps, and go on to lead your country, unless you're honest and really have something about you."

Power also placed Watson above every other centre-half he played alongside, including during his time at Everton where he won the old First Division title. "Now I was lucky enough to play with a lot of good centre halves so for him to come top of the tree speaks volumes about his ability."

Beyond his playing qualities, Power credited Watson as a mentor to younger players at City, including Gary Owen and Peter Barnes. "It meant the world for us to have someone like Dave there to look up to and guide and advise us whenever needed."

Power was equally warm about Watson's character off the pitch. "Not only was Dave a great player, but he was also a great person too and totally without ego," he said, also praising Watson's wife Penny as a popular figure among the playing staff.