While Robinson only spent a season at the Abbey Stadium, O'Shea stayed until 1995, playing a major role in the success the club enjoyed in nearly reaching the Premier League under manager John Beck. O'Shea captained the United side as they played a FA Cup quarter-final tie at his old club Arsenal in 1991, though he ended on the losing side that day.
While Robinson had a short stint at the Abbey Stadium, O'Shea prolonged his stay until 1995 and played a pivotal role in the team's achievements as they narrowly avoided relegation under John Beck. In 1991, O'Shea led United into an FA Cup quarter-final against Arsenal, where he lost to his former club.