The move by Dan Doyle on this day in 1891 from Everton to Celtic was rather an unusual one.
After all, why would a top player from a professional team in England join a club in nominally-amateur Scotland? Now, you may have your own thoughts on the matter but I could not possibly comment.
On the pitch, though, Doyle the left-back was a star, showing composure and style, making life difficult for every opponent. He was in the first Celtic team ever to win the Scottish Cup on 9 April 1892; won league championship medals with Celtic in 1892/93 and 1893/94; and also captained Scotland against England at Parkhead on 17 April 1894.
There were also some dubious moments in his career.
When Celtic were knocked out of the Scottish Cup by non-league Arthurlie in January 1897, for instance, Dan had failed to turn up for the match and his off-field activities could be a problem for the club officials of the time.
But with 6 goals in his 133 appearances, Dan was every inch a good Celt and his retirement in 1899 was a real blow to both Celtic and Scottish football in general.
Many Happy Returns to Steve Fulton, born on this day at Greenock in 1970.
Jim Craig
