Villa star inspired by tragedy

Jan 11 2007 By James Cartledge, Birmingham Mail

NEW Villa star Phil Bardsley has spoken of the passion driving him to be successful for his new club - the brutal killing of his favourite uncle.

The defender's mentor Frank Buckley was beaten to death in the street, but the tragedy has inspired Bardsley to press ahead even harder with his career.

The 47-year-old was savagely beaten outside a pub after a family celebration and died in hospital a week later.

"It has been difficult for us," Bardsley said. "I think about Frank all the time. He was a big influence on my career.

"Family is a big part of my life. They have supported me since I was very young and it has been a roller coaster ride since then."

Bardsley, now 21, played for Mr Buckley's junior football club at the age of ten. He signed for Manchester United as a boy and joined Villa on loan earlier this week.

Mr Buckley was attacked in March, 2004, after celebrating his father-in-law's 65th birthday with relatives at Yates's Wine Lodge at Swinton, Greater Manchester. Manchester Crown Court heard the attack was sparked when his wife's bag was moved to another table.

A punch was thrown and police were called. But outside the pub, Mr Buckley was confronted by a line of thugs who beat him senseless.

A total of seven men were jailed for their parts in the attack. Peter Birkett QC told the court: "This terrible incident took place on what should have been a happy occasion."