Ranking The Top 10 Greatest Celtic FC Players of All Time

Celtic FC has been home to some of the greatest talents in Scottish football history. These players have left an everlasting legacy at the club with their extraordinary skills, dedication, and contributions to its success. Here’s a countdown of the 10 greatest players to ever wear the famous green and white hoops:

10. Packie Bonner

A legendary goalkeeper, Packie Bonner served Celtic for an incredible 20 years, amassing 642 appearances. Known for his bravery and shot-stopping abilities, Bonner played a key role in Celtic’s success during the 1980s and early ’90s, helping the team secure 4 League titles and 3 Scottish Cups.

9. Bobby Lennox

The second-highest scorer in Celtic’s history with 273 goals, Bobby Lennox was a vital part of the Lisbon Lions team that won the 1967 European Cup. Over a stellar career, Lennox won 11 League titles, 8 Scottish Cups, and 5 League Cups, making him a legend at Parkhead.

8. Patsy Gallacher

Nicknamed the “Mighty Atom,” Patsy Gallacher was one of the most skillful and entertaining players of his era. He scored 195 goals in 464 matches and won 6 League titles and 4 Scottish Cups, leaving an indelible mark on Celtic during the early 20th century.

7. Kenny Dalglish

Before becoming a Liverpool icon, Kenny Dalglish showcased his immense talent at Celtic. He won 4 League titles and 4 Cups during his time at Parkhead, proving his class and earning his place among Celtic’s all-time greats.

6. Danny McGrain

A versatile and tenacious defender, Danny McGrain was one of the best full-backs in the history of Scottish football. He spent 17 years at Celtic, winning 7 League titles and 5 Cups, and is remembered for his incredible consistency and leadership on the pitch.

5. Paul McStay

Known as “The Maestro,” Paul McStay dedicated his entire career to Celtic, making over 500 appearances between 1981 and 1997. A brilliant midfielder, McStay won 3 League titles, 4 Cups, and was inducted into the Scotland Football Hall of Fame.

4. Henrik Larsson

Celtic fans affectionately call him “The King of Kings.” Henrik Larsson scored 242 goals in 315 matches, leading the team to 4 League titles and 2 Scottish Cups. His heroics in the 2003 UEFA Cup final and unmatched goal-scoring prowess cement his place in Celtic folklore.

3. Billy McNeill

A true leader, Billy McNeill captained the legendary Lisbon Lions to their 1967 European Cup triumph. Over a career spanning nearly two decades, McNeill played more than 800 matches and won 9 League titles, 7 Scottish Cups, and 6 League Cups.

2. Jimmy Johnstone

Voted Celtic’s greatest player in a 2002 poll, Jimmy Johnstone was a winger of extraordinary flair and creativity. A pivotal figure in the Lisbon Lions’ European Cup victory, he dazzled fans with his skill and helped Celtic win 9 League titles and 4 Cups.

1. Jimmy McGrory

Celtic’s all-time leading scorer, Jimmy McGrory scored an astonishing 469 goals in 448 matches. Known for his loyalty to the club, McGrory turned down lucrative offers to stay at Celtic. His remarkable goal-scoring record and passion for the club make him the greatest Celt of all time.

Conclusion

From goalkeeping stalwarts to prolific forwards, Celtic’s history is filled with extraordinary players who have defined eras and brought immense success to the club. These legends represent the heart and soul of Celtic FC, and their contributions will forever be cherished by fans around the globe.