Jamie Mulgrew wins record 11th league title with Linfield

Jamie Mulgrew, the captain of Linfield, has recently achieved his 11th league title, a record for players at a single club in Northern Ireland. The 38-year-old midfielder was initially unaware that he had secured this milestone after a match on Tuesday evening, as he went to bed early, tired from coaching his team’s under-18s. The victory that clinched the league title came when rivals Glentoran drew with Larne, making it Linfield's 57th championship overall, a world record. Mulgrew expressed that while winning on the pitch is ideal, the title win felt like an anti-climax since it was confirmed without actually playing. Mulgrew has had an impressive career at Linfield, where he has been a key player for nearly two decades. He noted that the absence of recent titles made the victory even sweeter, as the team faced tough competition. With only four active players worldwide having won more league titles than him, Mulgrew is part of an elite group. He began his career at Glentoran but joined Linfield in 2005, fulfilling a lifelong dream. Despite struggling with injuries early on, he has since become a crucial leader and a strong presence on the pitch, known for his tactical leadership. Mulgrew's longevity at Linfield is notable, especially in a demanding role that often sees him fouled. He credits his success to his early experiences, which taught him about the pressures of winning and the importance of teamwork and cohesion. This season's success holds special meaning for Mulgrew and the team, as they deal with the loss of two close colleagues from the club. Mulgrew reflected on the importance of their support for one another during difficult times and emphasized the strong bond within the team. Looking ahead, Mulgrew has committed to playing for another season and is starting his UEFA Pro coaching license. While he is preparing for life beyond playing, his focus remains on helping Linfield win more titles, as he aims for his twelfth championship.