29 December is a sad day in the Celtic calendar as it marks the anniversary of Phil O’Donnell’s untimely and tragic passing. Phil lost his life 14 years ago today, while playing the sport he loved. He was just 35 years of age.
An energetic midfielder, O’Donnell made his name during an exceptional four year spell at Motherwell, before spending five years with his beloved Celtic and a further four years at Sheffield Wednesday. The latter stages of his career then saw him return to Fir Park in 2004 until he passed away in late 2007.
That prestigious career enabled Phil to win the Scottish Cup with the Steelmen in 1991, and two of Celtic’s most important trophies in recent history – the Scottish Cup to end a six year trophy drought and the Scottish League to prevent Rangers from winning ten in a row.
Phil was a great player, who twice won the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year, but more importantly he was a great man. He was well liked by his teammates, respected by those who knew him, and dearly loved by his family.
May he rest in peace.
