Craig Burley was a surprise signing for Celtic who made an even more surprising impact…
Craig Burley Glasgow Celtic FC 11 May 1998 Photo Mary Evans Allstar DavidxGadd
Craig Burley was one of the first signings of the Wim Jansen reign at Celtic in 1997. Burley was signed from Chelsea for £2.5 million in one of the most pressure filled seasons in the club’s existence.
He was somewhat of a surprise signing, although not an unknown quantity as we knew a bit about him as he played for Chelsea as well as being a Scottish internationalist.
Celtic supporters had no idea of the impact he would have on the side. Recognised as an industrious midfielder who could also play in defence, he was regarded as a ‘utility’ player by many and wasn’t known as a dynamic or goalscoring player.
Craig Burley Glasgow Celtic FC 07 January 1998. Photo Mary Evans Allstar Paul Mcfegan
But to our surprise he became one of our most valuable assets that so important campaign. Scoring a total of 15 goals, and vital ones at that. That toothless grin roaring in celebration became a familiar image.
The most notable being the opener against Rangers in the New Year game at Celtic Park in 1998. But other goals such as his brace at Fir Park against Motherwell in September 1997, and his winner against Dunfermline in the League Cup semi-final a month later were also just as important.
He also scored the third goal in the League Cup final win over Dundee United at Ibrox in November 1997 – a match that gave this Celtic team the belief that they were more than good enough to go on and win the league for the first time since the Centenary season in 1988.
Craig Burley Glasgow Celtic FC 27 July 1997 Mary Evans Allstar DavidxGadd
Craig was a vital member of the squad that stopped their dreaded Ten. As well as winning two honours with the club that season, he also gained personal glory scooping the football writers player of the year award in recognition of his contributions.
Craig would eventually leave the club in 1999 after making a total of 93 appearances scoring 26 goals. He might not have proved to be a popular figure in later years. Similar to a certain Andy Walker he isn’t highly regarded by a percentage of the Celtic support due to his punditry.
But on the other hand we will always be grateful for his contribution during that vital season.
Just an Ordinary Bhoy
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