Best Glasgow Celtic Players of All Time: A Comprehensive List

Glasgow Celtic, one of the most successful football clubs in Scotland, has produced some of the greatest players in the history of the sport. From legendary forwards to iconic midfielders, stalwart defenders to outstanding goalkeepers, the club has had no shortage of talented players who have left their mark on the game.

Over the years, Celtic has been home to a number of pioneering managers who have led the club to record-breaking achievements and notable successes. The club has also produced influential captains who have inspired their teammates to greatness and helped to bring home trophies. With such a rich history and tradition of excellence, it can be difficult to narrow down the list of the best Celtic players of all time.

In this article, we will take a look at some of the greatest players to have ever donned the famous green and white hoops of Glasgow Celtic. We will explore their contributions to the club’s success, their achievements on and off the pitch, and their impact on the game of football as a whole. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Celtic football and discover the best players to have ever graced the pitch at Celtic Park.

Key Takeaways

• Glasgow Celtic has produced some of the greatest players in the history of football, including legendary forwards, iconic midfielders, stalwart defenders, and outstanding goalkeepers.
• The club has a rich history of success, including record-breaking achievements, notable successes, and European glory.
• The best Celtic players of all time have made significant contributions to the club’s success, inspired their teammates to greatness, and left a lasting impact on the game of football.

Legendary Forwards

Glasgow Celtic has had some of the best forwards in the history of Scottish football. These players have left an indelible mark on the club and are remembered fondly by fans. In this section, we will take a look at some of the legendary forwards who have donned the green and white jersey of Celtic.

Jimmy McGrory

Jimmy McGrory is widely regarded as the greatest goalscorer in the history of Celtic. He scored an incredible 550 goals in competitive first-class matches, including 472 goals in major competitions for the club. McGrory played for Celtic from 1922 to 1937, during which time he won six Scottish League titles and five Scottish Cups. He was also the top scorer in the Scottish League on six occasions. McGrory’s record of 55 goals in the 1927-28 season still stands as a British record.

Henrik Larsson

Henrik Larsson is another legendary forward who is revered by Celtic fans. He signed for the club in 1997 and went on to score 242 goals in 313 appearances. Larsson was instrumental in helping Celtic win four Scottish League titles, two Scottish Cups, and two Scottish League Cups. He was also named the Scottish Player of the Year on three occasions. Larsson’s ability to score goals from anywhere on the pitch and his incredible work rate made him a fan favorite.

Kenny Dalglish

Kenny Dalglish is a true Celtic legend, having played for the club from 1969 to 1977. During his time at Celtic, Dalglish won four Scottish League titles, four Scottish Cups, and one Scottish League Cup. He scored 167 goals in 322 appearances for the club. Dalglish’s ability to play anywhere in the forward line, his incredible dribbling skills, and his vision made him a joy to watch for fans. He was also named the Scottish Player of the Year on two occasions.

These legendary forwards have left an indelible mark on Celtic’s history and are still remembered fondly by fans. Their incredible goal-scoring prowess, work rate, and skill on the ball make them some of the greatest players to have ever played for the club.

Iconic Midfielders

Glasgow Celtic FC has had some of the best midfielders in the history of football. These players have been instrumental in the club’s success, both domestically and internationally. Here are three of the most iconic midfielders to have ever played for the club:

Bobby Murdoch

Bobby Murdoch was a key member of the famous Lisbon Lions team that won the European Cup in 1967. He was a versatile midfielder who was equally comfortable playing in a defensive or attacking role. Murdoch was known for his excellent passing ability and his long-range shooting, which helped him score some spectacular goals for the club. He made over 600 appearances for Celtic and won numerous domestic and European titles during his time at the club.

Paul McStay

Paul McStay, also known as “The Maestro”, was a gifted midfielder who spent his entire career at Celtic. He was a technically gifted player with excellent vision and passing ability. McStay was known for his ability to control the midfield and dictate the tempo of the game. He was also a great leader and captained the club for several years. McStay won numerous domestic titles with Celtic and was widely regarded as one of the best players of his generation.

Scott Brown

Scott Brown is a modern-day Celtic legend who played for the club for over a decade. He was a combative midfielder who was known for his tough tackling and leadership qualities. Brown was also an excellent passer of the ball and had a great work rate. He won numerous domestic titles and played a key role in the club’s success during his time at Celtic. Brown was also named the Scottish Football Writers’ Association Player of the Year twice during his career.

These three midfielders are just a few examples of the many great players who have played for Glasgow Celtic FC. They are remembered not only for their individual brilliance but also for their contribution to the club’s success over the years.

Stalwart Defenders

Celtic has had an illustrious history with a plethora of talented players, but none have been more important than their stalwart defenders. These defenders have been the bedrock of the club’s successes, providing a solid foundation for the team to build on. In this section, we will take a look at some of the best defenders to have graced the Celtic jersey.

Billy McNeill

Billy McNeill is a true Celtic legend and one of the greatest defenders of all time. He captained the club’s famous European Cup-winning team in 1967, becoming the first British player to lift the trophy. McNeill was a commanding presence at the back, with his towering height and aerial ability making him a formidable opponent. He spent his entire playing career at Celtic, making over 800 appearances and winning numerous domestic and European titles. McNeill’s contribution to the club was recognized when he was awarded a statue outside Celtic Park.

Tommy Gemmell

Tommy Gemmell was another key member of the famous Lisbon Lions team. He was a marauding left-back who loved to get forward and was known for his powerful shooting ability. Gemmell scored one of the most iconic goals in Celtic’s history, netting in the European Cup final against Inter Milan. He also played a pivotal role in the club’s domestic success, winning six league titles and five Scottish Cups. Gemmell’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity made him one of the best full-backs of his generation.

Danny McGrain

Danny McGrain is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in Scottish football history. He spent his entire career at Celtic, making over 600 appearances and winning numerous domestic and European titles. McGrain was a versatile player who could play at right-back or centre-back, and he was equally adept at attacking and defending. He was a tenacious tackler, a superb reader of the game, and possessed excellent technical ability. McGrain’s contribution to the club was recognized when he was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame.

These three defenders were instrumental in Celtic’s success over the years, providing a solid foundation for the team to build on. They were not only great defenders but also leaders on and off the pitch. Their legacy lives on at the club, and they will forever be remembered as true Celtic legends.

Outstanding Goalkeepers

Celtic has had some of the best goalkeepers in the history of football. This section will highlight two of the most outstanding goalkeepers to have ever played for the club.

Pat Bonner

Pat Bonner was one of the most successful goalkeepers in Celtic’s history. The Irishman played for the club for over a decade, making over 600 appearances. Bonner was a crucial part of the team that won the European Cup in 1988. He was also instrumental in helping Celtic win three Scottish league titles, two Scottish Cups, and one Scottish League Cup.

Bonner was known for his excellent shot-stopping abilities, his bravery, and his leadership skills. He was also a reliable penalty saver, making crucial saves in important games. Bonner’s performances for Celtic earned him a place in the club’s Hall of Fame.

Artur Boruc

Artur Boruc was a fan favorite during his time at Celtic. The Polish goalkeeper played for the club for five years, making over 200 appearances. Boruc was a key player in the team that won the Scottish Premier League title for three consecutive seasons.

Boruc was known for his agility, his reflexes, and his commanding presence in the box. He was also a great penalty saver, saving crucial penalties in important games. Boruc’s performances for Celtic earned him a place in the club’s Hall of Fame.

In conclusion, Pat Bonner and Artur Boruc were two of the best goalkeepers to have ever played for Celtic. Their performances for the club were exceptional, and they will always be remembered as legends of the club.

Pioneering Managers

Glasgow Celtic has had many great managers throughout its history, but two of the most influential were Jock Stein and Martin O’Neill.

Jock Stein

Jock Stein is widely regarded as the greatest manager in Celtic’s history. He managed the club from 1965 to 1978, leading them to nine consecutive league titles and the European Cup in 1967. Stein’s success was built on a foundation of hard work, discipline, and a commitment to attacking football. He was a master tactician who knew how to get the best out of his players. Stein was also a pioneer in the game, being the first British manager to field an all-Catholic team.

Martin O’Neill

Martin O’Neill managed Celtic from 2000 to 2005, winning three league titles, three Scottish Cups, and reaching the UEFA Cup final in 2003. O’Neill’s Celtic side was known for its attacking flair and never-say-die attitude. He was a master of motivation, able to inspire his players to perform at their best. O’Neill was also a shrewd tactician who knew how to get the best out of his squad. His success at Celtic made him a legend in the eyes of the fans.

These two managers were pioneers in their own way. Stein paved the way for future managers with his innovative tactics and commitment to attacking football. O’Neill continued that tradition, building a team that played with passion and flair. They are both legends of the game and will forever be remembered as two of the greatest managers in Celtic’s history.

Record Breakers and Notable Achievements

Throughout its storied history, Glasgow Celtic has produced some of the greatest footballers in the world. These players have achieved numerous records and accolades that have cemented their place in the club’s rich history.

One of the most notable records held by a Celtic player is the all-time leading scorer in Scottish football, which belongs to Jimmy McGrory. McGrory scored a staggering 472 goals in major competitions, a record that still stands to this day. He is also the record goalscorer in British football, with a total of 550 goals in competitive first-class matches.

Another Celtic legend who achieved remarkable success is Henrik Larsson. The Swedish striker is the club’s second all-time leading scorer with 242 goals in major competitions. Larsson also holds the record for the most goals scored in a single European campaign, with 11 goals in the 2002-03 UEFA Cup.

In addition to individual records, Celtic has also achieved numerous team accomplishments throughout its history. The club has won a record 51 Scottish League titles, including nine in a row from 2011 to 2019. Celtic has also won the Scottish Cup a record 40 times and the Scottish League Cup a record 19 times.

Celtic’s success is not limited to domestic competitions, as the club has also achieved significant success in European competitions. The club won the European Cup in 1967, becoming the first British club to win the competition. Celtic has also reached the final of the competition on two other occasions.

Overall, Celtic has produced some of the greatest players in the history of football and has achieved numerous records and accolades throughout its history. These achievements have cemented the club’s place as one of the most successful and storied football clubs in the world.

European Glory

Celtic Football Club has an impressive record in European competitions, having won the European Cup, now known as the UEFA Champions League, in 1967. The team, known as the “Lisbon Lions,” defeated Inter Milan in the final to become the first British team to win the prestigious tournament.

The success of the Lisbon Lions was built on the talents of several key players, including captain Billy McNeill, winger Jimmy Johnstone, and striker Stevie Chalmers, who scored the winning goal in the final. Their victory remains one of the greatest moments in the club’s history, and is still celebrated by fans today.

In addition to their European Cup triumph, Celtic has also reached the final of the tournament on another two occasions, in 1970 and 2003. The team also won the UEFA Cup, now known as the Europa League, in 2003, defeating Portuguese side Porto in the final.

Over the years, Celtic has faced some of the biggest names in European football, including Barcelona, AC Milan, and Liverpool. The club’s passionate supporters have also earned a reputation for creating an electric atmosphere at home matches, with the famous “Green Brigade” leading the way.

Despite the club’s success in Europe, they have struggled to replicate their domestic dominance in recent years. However, with a talented squad and a passionate fanbase, there is always hope that Celtic can once again conquer the continent and add to their already impressive European legacy.

Domestic Dominance

Celtic Football Club has a long and storied history of domestic dominance, having won a record 51 Scottish League titles, 40 Scottish Cups, and 19 Scottish League Cups. The club’s success has been built on the back of many great players, with some of the most talented and prolific athletes to ever grace the sport having donned the green and white hoops of Celtic.

One of the key factors in Celtic’s domestic dominance has been their ability to consistently produce top-class strikers. The club’s all-time top scorer is Jimmy McGrory, who netted an incredible 522 goals in just 547 appearances for the Bhoys. McGrory’s record has stood the test of time, and it is difficult to imagine any player ever surpassing his goal-scoring feats.

Other notable strikers who have contributed to Celtic’s domestic dominance include Henrik Larsson, who scored 242 goals in 313 appearances for the club, and Stevie Chalmers, who famously scored the winning goal in the 1967 European Cup final. Larsson’s goal-scoring prowess helped Celtic to win four league titles in a row between 2001 and 2004, while Chalmers’ European Cup-winning goal cemented his place in Celtic folklore.

Of course, Celtic’s success has not been built solely on the back of their strikers. The club has also had a number of outstanding midfielders and defenders over the years, such as Danny McGrain, Paul McStay, and Billy McNeill. McGrain, who played for Celtic between 1970 and 1987, won seven league titles and five Scottish Cups during his time at the club, while McStay was a key player in the 1980s and 1990s, helping Celtic to win three league titles and two Scottish Cups.

In recent years, Celtic’s domestic dominance has continued, with the club winning nine league titles in a row between 2012 and 2020. During this period, the club had a number of outstanding players, such as Scott Brown, Kieran Tierney, and Moussa Dembele, who helped to establish Celtic as the dominant force in Scottish football.

Overall, Celtic’s domestic dominance has been built on the back of many great players, and the club’s success shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

Influential Captains

Throughout its history, Glasgow Celtic FC has had many influential captains who have led the team to victory and inspired generations of fans. These captains have played a crucial role in shaping the club’s identity and culture, and their contributions are still remembered and celebrated to this day.

One of the most iconic and beloved captains in Celtic’s history is Billy McNeill. McNeill, who played for the club from 1957 to 1975, was the captain of the legendary Lisbon Lions team that won the European Cup in 1967. He was known for his leadership skills, his physical presence on the pitch, and his ability to inspire his teammates to perform at their best. McNeill remains a beloved figure among Celtic fans, and his legacy as a captain and a player continues to inspire new generations of players and supporters.

Another influential captain in Celtic’s history is Tom Boyd. Boyd, who played for the club from 1992 to 2003, was the captain of the team that won the domestic treble in 2001. He was known for his versatility, his work ethic, and his ability to lead by example. Boyd was a key figure in Celtic’s success during the 1990s and early 2000s, and his contributions to the club’s history are still celebrated by fans today.

Other notable captains in Celtic’s history include Danny McGrain, who played for the club from 1967 to 1987 and was known for his defensive skills and his ability to read the game; Paul McStay, who played for the club from 1981 to 1997 and was known for his technical ability and his leadership on and off the pitch; and Scott Brown, who played for the club from 2007 to 2021 and was known for his tenacity, his physicality, and his ability to rally his teammates.

Overall, the captains of Glasgow Celtic FC have played a vital role in the club’s success and have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire fans and players alike. Their contributions to the club’s history are a testament to the power of leadership and the importance of teamwork, and their influence will be felt for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the top Celtic FC players from the 1980s?

The 1980s were a successful decade for Celtic FC, with the club winning the Scottish league title four times. During this period, the team had some exceptional players, including Roy Aitken, Danny McGrain, and Paul McStay. However, the standout player of the decade was undoubtedly Charlie Nicholas. The forward scored 48 goals in 105 appearances for Celtic during the 80s, helping the team win two league titles and one Scottish Cup.

Which current players are considered Celtic greats?

While it is difficult to predict who will be remembered as a Celtic great, some current players have already made a significant impact at the club. One such player is Scott Brown, who captained the team to nine consecutive league titles between 2012 and 2020. Other current players who have impressed include Callum McGregor, who has been a consistent performer in midfield, and Odsonne Edouard, who has scored over 70 goals for the club since joining in 2017.

Can you list the standout Celtic players from the 1990s?

The 1990s were a mixed decade for Celtic, with the club winning three league titles but also experiencing some disappointing seasons. Despite this, there were some standout players during this period, including Pierre van Hooijdonk, who scored 52 goals in 70 appearances for the club, and Paolo Di Canio, who was a fan favorite during his time at Celtic Park. Other notable players from the 90s include Andreas Thom, Jorge Cadete, and Lubomir Moravcik.

Who have been the key Celtic players since the turn of the millennium?

Since the year 2000, Celtic FC has enjoyed a great deal of success, winning 13 league titles and reaching the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League on several occasions. During this period, the club has had many exceptional players, including Henrik Larsson, who scored 242 goals in 313 appearances for the club and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Celtic’s history. Other key players from the last two decades include Scott Brown, Shunsuke Nakamura, and Virgil van Dijk.

Which Celtic midfielders are regarded as the best in the club’s history?

Celtic FC has a rich history of producing exceptional midfielders, with many players in this position considered among the greatest in the club’s history. One such player is Paul McStay, who spent his entire career at Celtic and captained the team for several seasons. Other notable midfielders include Bertie Auld, who helped the club win the European Cup in 1967, and Lubomir Moravcik, who was a key player during the late 90s and early 2000s.

Who are the Celtic FC legends that have achieved over 100 goals and 100 assists?

Scoring over 100 goals and providing over 100 assists for a club is a significant achievement, and only a handful of players in Celtic’s history have managed this feat. One such player is Henrik Larsson, who scored 242 goals and provided 104 assists during his time at the club. Other players who achieved this milestone include Bobby Lennox, Jimmy McGrory, and Jimmy Quinn. These players are regarded as some of the greatest in Celtic’s history and are remembered fondly by fans of the club.