Frank McGarvey’s bravery was never in any doubt because Celtic supporters of a certain vintage know all about this Celtic star’s qualities as a football player and as a man. That Celtic team he played in was exciting to watch and with McGarvey’s endeavour, commitment and most of all quality we were always likely to see goals.
Yet he didn’t only score them, he was the assists king for the Prince of Parkhead, Champagne Charlie Nicholas who remarkably created very few goals for McGarvey while Frank would consistently put them on a plate for the young star.
Frank’s work-rate was a given in every game and we’d often have some sympathy for rival defenders reckoning that they had absolutely no idea what Frank was going to do next because he didn’t know himself.
That’s why on Saturday it was the over 50s who probably made the most noise when Frank addressed the Celtic support at around ten minutes to three. And that YNWA was for you Frank, make no mistake about that.
The extent of Frank’s illness was revealed yesterday by a remarkably moving, powerful interview – which was also quite beautiful too – on Celtic TV and plenty of tears were shed watching that.
“I just wanted to say to the Celtic fans that I love them very much and I want to thank them for everything that they have done for me,” Frank said.
His going away present for Celtic back in 1985 – even if he didn’t know it at the time – was that incredible header to win the Scottish Cup. Roy Aitken’s cross was slightly too far behind him but somehow sheer desire made Frank who was lovingly referred to as the ‘rubber man’ appear to bend backwards to get his head on the ball and send most of Hampden into a Cup winning frenzy. What a goal! What a man!
Frank McGarvey ☘️💚 pic.twitter.com/tkFgtxigsw
— NaCeiltighAbú / BrenCelt (@brencelt) October 15, 2022
Speaking about that Scottish Cup Final winner in 1985 against Dundee United, Frank told Celtic TV: “If you can make over a hundred thousand people in Scotland happy by scoring goal in an important time for us because Scottish football then was at a very high level.
“To score that goal and look at the Celtic end, to see the fans cheering…when I was a wee boy brought up in Easterhouse I dreamed of those things and they were never going to happen. That day I made them all happy.
Over the past few years we’ve enjoyed covering Frank McGarvey’s podcast alongside Tommy Sheridan. Tommy would rant on about what’s happening at Celtic at the time and Frank would often refer back to his own playing days wearing the Hoops and his stories were brilliant. It’s well worth listening back.
“Celtic is not just about the players, the football club is about the fans. It’s just a big family.”
And that family is thinking of you Frank, praying for you and you already know that you will never walk alone. God bless you Frank, god bless you.
Some supporter comments…
“I had the honour of watching Frank play for Celtic back in those wonderful days and he was one of the standouts from a memorable team. He has left his mark on the history of this great club. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family and friends at this time. Thank you Frank for your distinguished service as a Celt.”
“Frank I just want to say it’s a privilege to have seen you play and you gave us everything, this is not lost on us Frank. Each and every one of the Celtic family love you deeply, you gave your heart for our shirt, in return we keep you I those hearts. Thank you Frank, God bless.”
“Not just Hundreds-of-thousands of people in Scotland, Frank, but globally!! Your name will forever be in Green lights and hold a special place in every Celtic supporters hearts. Cancer’s had a right shocker by messing with a born and bred Easterhoose Bhoy. Cmon Frank, this is easy street for you, on to victory! We are with you all the way!”
“Legend. He means everything to us. The 1985 header brought our area to a standstill for a week in ’85. Praying for you Frank! X”
“Thank you Frank for the wonderful memories you have given us. You were always a hero of mine . I was 13 when you scored that header in 85 and you have always had a place in my heart. I had the privilege to spend some hours in your company a few years back. What a lovely humble man you are. Your Celtic Family are with you every step of this difficult journey and you will certainly never walk alone. We love you forever a true Celtic legend HH Frank.”
“Very sad watching this , no matter what happens Frank you will have a special place in ALL Celtic fans hearts forever YNWA.”
“God bless you Frank. You were a big hero of mine growing up, in my first Celtic team. Me, my dad and my 2 brothers all loved watching you. You gave everything wearing our famous green & white Hoops. So many great goals and assists, against all the top teams in Scotland and Europe. As well as 85 cup final wonder goal, one in 5-0 v Sporting, numerous v Dundee United, Aberdeen & Rangers, and your belter of a goal into the top corner v St Mirren in Feb 1981 in paradise, just before half time is one my favourites. Thank you for everything you did in the Hoops. You’re a true Celtic Legend and we love you. Keep the faith Frank, all of the Celtic family are with you.”
And on and on they go.
“I love them very, very much. This is probably going to be the last time I can see them.” 💔
Frank McGarvey’s tearful Celtic tribute as he thanks fans over cancer supporthttps://t.co/vLCH3qsifo pic.twitter.com/ZToUTtqxqk
— Football Scotland (@Football_Scot) October 17, 2022
As the song says, There’s Only One Frank McGarvey.
A courageous player. Showing that same courage to speak to the fans & do the interview. Brave, inspiring, touching & desperately sad.
Wishing Frank & his family all the very best💚🍀 https://t.co/gu5UQQE9sy— John Hughes (@yogijunior3) October 17, 2022
What a powerful, moving interview.
God bless you, Frank.
We’re rooting for you big time. 💚 https://t.co/WdM6nchnwL
— Matt Corr (@Boola_vogue) October 17, 2022
