Recently Bridie Bhoy, a well-known poster on Celtic Noise suggested that we look at selecting a Best Ever Celtic side pre Lisbon – so that supporters could get a chance to discuss and debate the legends of the past and perhaps submit their own selections after listening to the views of three Celtic historians and published authors, all of whom write for The Celtic Star.
Last night I hosted a podcast with the three – David Potter, Matt Corr and Liam Kelly (sponsored it would appear by Celtic Curio) debating their selections, arguing for their picks over the alternatives being put forward and standing up to some mischievous devil’s advocate interventions from yours truly! David Potter’s internet connection is terrible – his supplier is Virgin Media so that’s them named and shamed and we’re going to try to get this sorted for him over the next few weeks so we can hear more from the Celtic historian! For now you’ll have to forgive the technology mishaps and make the best of enjoying the conversation.
We’ve talked through a one to eleven and even added a substitute which for the entire period in question – 1888-1966 – weren’t even allowed but it was a Friday night and it added to the entertainment. From this we’ll put together our team and open that up for you to comment and even to submit your own Greatest Ever Celtic side pre-Lisbon. One position that has already been determined is the goalkeeper and you won’t be surprised to learn that the gloves are going to John Thomson.
Here’s the video as The Celtic Star tries to agree on Celtic’s Greatest Team – Pre Lisbon, please let us now what you think.
Writing on The Celtic Star, Lisbon Lion Jim Craig, four years ago today noted a significant moment in the Celtic Story on this day in 1927.
On this day, in 1927, an 18-year-old laddie made his debut for Celtic’s first team in a league match against Dundee at Dens Park. His name was John Thomson.
After a short period with Bowhill West End and Bowhill Rovers in 1924, John had joined Wellesley Juniors in 1925, where his form caught the eye of the local Celtic scout, who was quick to pass on news of this promising boy to Celtic Park.
The local press was also quick to spread the message – ‘Wellesley have unearthed a champion goalkeeper in Thomson from Bowhill. He is a youngster yet but should develop’. (Fife Free Press – October 1925).
According to the records John Thomson signed for Celtic on 1st November 1926, when their first choice keeper was Peter Shevlin. He was loaned to Ayr United Reserves for the month of December 1926 but as a result of what was regarded as a poor performance by the defence in general in a Scottish Cup at Glebe Park in Brechin on 5th February 1927 – although they won 6-3 – Shevlin was dropped and John Thomson got his chance.
Curiously, in the Glasgow press the following day, when the Celtic team was listed, it read as follows – J Thomson (Wellesley Juniors), W McStay, Hilley, Wilson, Donoghue, Doyle, Connolly, A Thomson, McGrory, McInally, McLean – but why John Thomson’s junior team is also listed is unclear.
However, he took his chance, impressed enough in the 2-1 victory over Dundee to keep his place and was in for the next few seasons.
Thanks for this interesting podcast. I know it was a very difficult question as you are reliant on other people’s recollections and history books but I feel it is important that we recognise and remember the wonderful legends that have played for our fantastic club.
The greatest ever Celtic team voted for about 20 years ago was exclusively Lisbon Lions and afterwards which is understandable as these were the players we witnessed personally. But these heroes were standing on the shoulders of giants who must be celebrated forever.
Thanks a lot for your suggestion to do this. It was good fun to go through it. I wonder how many deserve to make it into the overall greatest XI? McNair, McGrory and Gallacher for me. They’d have to be in place of McStay (Murdoch moved forward), Dalglish, and Auld I reckon. Extremely tough to decide.
Murdy + any ten others