Billy Stark, one of the most respected men in Scottish football…
Former Celtic midfielder and coach Billy Stark yesterday retired from the game at the age of 67. Billy decided to call it a day after a career stretching back nearly half a century. From starting out as a youngster at St Mirren to coaching the Scottish youth of tomorrow, Billy has seen and done it all in the Scottish game.
A gifted tall elegant midfielder Billy was a success at each and every club he graced from St Mirren, to Kilmarnock with stints at Aberdeen, Celtic and Hamilton in between. Billy signed for Celtic at the age of 30 in the summer of 1987. Seen as something as a surprise signing by Billy McNeill as we entered our centenary year due to his advancing years, but Cesar knew Billy’s experience would benefit our squad for the challenges ahead.
He would be proved correct as Billy became an instant hit with the supporters as his brilliant displays and goals proved ever so vital in our fairytale double that historic season. Billy would play a further two seasons in the hoops making 84 appearances and scoring 25 goals.
He won a Scottish league title as well as two Scottish cups, to add to his already impressive haul of two league titles, two Scottish cups, a league cup and European super cup he won while at Aberdeen. Billy finished his playing career at Kilmarnock in 1994 and followed his good pal Tommy Burns to Celtic as assistant manager.
Despite just a Scottish Cup to show for their efforts, it was a great time with Tommy and Billy in charge. Billy later had spells as manager of Morton, St Johnstone and Queen’s Park. It’s his six year spell as Scotland under 21 manager and of course his last post as Scotland under 19 manager that goes rather unnoticed.
For a total of 12 years in both roles he helped nurture some of the Scottish stars of the future. Billy Stark may not be one of the biggest names in Scottish football, but he’s one of the most decorated and well respected. He’s achieved a lot in his fifty years in the game, and can feel very proud. Happy retirement Billy.
Best wishes to former Celt, Billy Stark, who has today retired from football.
All the best in your retirement, Billy! 💚#CelticFC🍀 https://t.co/rA8OOR28lj pic.twitter.com/g5VAbH2gaW
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) April 2, 2024
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
