Paul George Barron is a distinguished former professional footballer and accomplished coach, renowned for his contributions to the sport as a goalkeeper. His professional journey began with non-league clubs such as Welling United, Wycombe Wanderers, and Slough Town, where he honed his skills before turning professional with Plymouth Argyle in 1976. Barron made a significant impact at Arsenal after signing in 1978, where he served as a reliable backup to legendary goalkeeper Pat Jennings, showcasing his talent in eight appearances during his tenure.
Following his time at Arsenal, Barron joined Crystal Palace, where he became a key player under manager Terry Venables. His performance during the challenging 1980-81 season, where he made 33 league appearances, demonstrated his resilience and ability to perform under pressure. After a successful stint at Palace, he moved to West Bromwich Albion, contributing to the team with 63 First Division appearances over three seasons, further solidifying his reputation as a dependable goalkeeper.
Transitioning from player to coach, Barron embraced his role as a goalkeeping coach at various clubs, including Coventry City and Queens Park Rangers. His expertise was instrumental in developing young talent and enhancing team performance. Notably, he played a pivotal role at Newcastle United, where he served as goalkeeping coach until 2010, leaving a lasting legacy in player development.
As of 2023, Barron continues to inspire the next generation of athletes as a coach for Girls’ Elite Academy teams at Las Vegas Sports Academy. His extensive experience and dedication to nurturing young talent reflect his commitment to the sport, making him a respected figure in football coaching.