Jimmy Johnstone

James Connolly Johnstone was born on September 30, 1944, in Viewpark, North Lanarkshire, Scotland. He grew up in a working-class family and showed an early talent for football. Johnstone would go on to become a legendary Scottish footballer, best known for his time at Celtic Football Club where he played as a winger. He was one of the 'Lisbon Lions' who won the European Cup in 1967.

Jimmy Johnstone made his first team debut for Celtic Football Club on March 27, 1961. He played against Kilmarnock in a league match which Celtic won 6-0. Johnstone's performance was promising, marking the beginning of a long and successful career at Celtic Park. Over the years, he would develop into one of the finest wingers in the history of Scottish football, known for his dribbling skills and pace.

On May 25, 1967, Jimmy Johnstone was part of the Celtic team that won the European Cup, defeating Inter Milan 2-1 in the final played in Lisbon. This victory made Celtic the first British team to win the competition, and the team became known as the 'Lisbon Lions'. Johnstone's performance was instrumental to the team's success, showcasing his incredible dribbling and technical skills that left a lasting legacy in European football.

In 1974, Jimmy Johnstone's outstanding performances for Celtic and the Scottish national team were recognized on the international stage when he was voted third in the Ballon d'Or, awarded to the best footballer in the world. This was a significant achievement, highlighting Johnstone's status as one of the elite footballers of his time, known for his exceptional skill and flair on the football field.

In June 1975, Jimmy Johnstone left Celtic to join the San Jose Earthquakes in the North American Soccer League (NASL). This was part of an influx of European stars to the NASL, aiming to promote football in the United States. Johnstone's move was a major event as he was one of the most talented wingers of his generation, bringing his dribbling wizardry to an American audience and contributing to the growth of the sport in the US.

Jimmy Johnstone was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 1985, an honor that celebrates his contributions to the sport in Scotland. Johnstone's career was marked by unparalleled success with Celtic, particularly his role in winning the European Cup in 1967, and this induction was a recognition of his talent, skill, and the impact he had made on Scottish and international football.

In November 2002, Jimmy Johnstone was voted as Celtic Football Club's greatest ever player by the club's fans. This accolade was a testament to his exceptional skill, memorable performances, and his role in Celtic's historic victories, including the 1967 European Cup win. Johnstone's legacy at Celtic remains unparalleled, and he is fondly remembered by supporters as an icon of the club.

Jimmy Johnstone passed away on March 13, 2006, at the age of 61, after a battle with motor neurone disease. His passing was mourned by fans across the world, particularly in Scotland where he was a beloved football figure. The Scottish football community paid tribute to his incredible contributions to the sport, celebrating his life, his career achievements, and his unforgettable presence on the football pitch.

On September 28, 2008, a memorial statue of Jimmy Johnstone was unveiled in his honor in his hometown of Viewpark, North Lanarkshire. The statue commemorates Johnstone's extraordinary life and career, serving as a lasting tribute to a footballer who brought immense joy and pride to the community. It stands as a symbol of Johnstone's impact and is a place for fans to remember his legacy.

On September 10, 2011, a special tribute match was held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Jimmy Johnstone's debut for Celtic. Former players and fans gathered to celebrate Johnstone's life and career, paying homage to his incredible talent and contributions to football. The match served as a reminder of his lasting influence on the game and the affection in which he is held by the footballing community.