Celtic Legends: 10 Greatest Players in Celtic FC History since the Sixties

In partnership with

The Celtic Star

·16. Juni 2025

Celtic Legends: 10 Greatest Players in Celtic FC History since the Sixties

The Rich Heritage of Celtic Football Club...

Celtic FC, founded in 1887, is not just a football club—it’s a powerful symbol of heritage, passion, and pride. Throughout its rich history, Celtic has showcased an abundance of legendary talents whose performances have left indelible marks on football fans worldwide. In this article, we highlight the 10 greatest players since the 1960s who have shaped the club’s legacy…

1. Jimmy Johnstone: The Greatest Celt?

Jimmy Johnstone of Celtic during the 1967 European Cup Final win over Inter Milan on 25 May 1967 in Lisbon. Photo IMAGO.

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Jimmy “Jinky” Johnstone is universally hailed as Celtic’s greatest ever player. His dazzling dribbling skills and quick feet made him nearly unstoppable on the field. He was instrumental in Celtic’s 1967 European Cup victory—earning the team the nickname “Lisbon Lions.” Johnstone’s 129 goals in over 500 appearances firmly establish his legendary status.

2. Henrik Larsson: The King of Kings

27 August 2000: Henrik Larsson celebrates during the Scottish Premier League match against Rangers at Celtic Park. Celtic won the game 6 – 2. Photo: Stu Forster /Allsport

Swedish sensation Henrik Larsson captured the hearts of Celtic fans with his astonishing scoring record—242 goals in 315 appearances. Larsson played a pivotal role in Celtic’s domestic dominance between 1997 and 2004, becoming an iconic figure remembered fondly by supporters.

3. Billy McNeill: The Lisbon Lions’ Captain

Billy McNeill (Celtic) holds the European Cup in Lisbon on 25 May 1967. Photo imago/Kicker/Metelmann

Billy McNeill, known affectionately as “Cesar,” captained Celtic to their greatest triumph—the European Cup in 1967. McNeill’s leadership, dedication, and defensive prowess made him an irreplaceable figure in Celtic’s storied history. He later returned as a manager, further solidifying his legendary status.

4. Kenny Dalglish: A Celtic Hero Before Liverpool Fame

Photo imago/Colorsport Kenny Dalglish

Before becoming a Liverpool legend, Kenny Dalglish starred at Celtic Park. His vision, creativity, and consistent scoring (over 160 goals) led Celtic to four Scottish league titles and several domestic trophies, marking him as one of Scotland’s greatest-ever players.

5. Paul McStay: The Maestro

Paul McStay scored – Photo The Celtic Wiki

Paul McStay, known as “The Maestro,” personified loyalty and class throughout his 15-year Celtic career. With 677 appearances, McStay’s composure, vision, and leadership in midfield solidified his legendary status, particularly during difficult times in the club’s history.

6. Danny McGrain: Captain Fantastic

Danny McGrain of Celtic and Pirri of Real Madrid exchange pennants in the second leg of the 1980 European Cup quarter final tie in the Bernabeu on 19 March 1980. Photo The Celtic Wiki

Danny McGrain is revered as one of Celtic’s greatest-ever defenders. A tenacious full-back, McGrain played over 650 games from 1970 to 1987, consistently demonstrating remarkable resilience, reliability, and defensive mastery, earning universal respect from fans and opponents alike.

7. Bobby Lennox: The Unstoppable Scorer

Celtic winger Bobby Lennox in action during a friendly match against Tottenham Hotspur at Hampden Park on August 5, 1967. (Photo by Don Morley/Allsport/Getty Images)

Bobby Lennox’s incredible goal-scoring abilities made him a crucial member of the Lisbon Lions. His 273 goals in 571 appearances illustrate his lethal precision and unmatched consistency, making him one of the club’s most cherished figures.

8. Tommy Burns: Celtic’s Heartbeat

Photo imago/Colorsport Tommy Burns of Celtic.Photo IMAGO

Tommy Burns embodied the heart and soul of Celtic. His commitment as a player and later as a manager exemplified genuine passion. Burns’s legacy is deeply felt among fans, particularly due to his dedication to developing young talent and promoting the club’s values.

9. Lubomir Moravcik: Our Gift from God

Celtic’s Lubo Moravcik (right) celebrates his first goal during the Scottish Premier League match against Rangers at Ibrox

Lubomir Moravcik, though arriving late in his career, quickly became a fan favourite thanks to his extraordinary technique and creativity. His influential role in securing Celtic’s treble-winning season in 2001 ensures his status as one of the club’s most talented foreign players.

10. Scott Brown: The Invincible skipper

Scott Brown celebratesHearts 0 Celtic 7, 1 December 2013. Photo Vagelis Georgariou

Scott Brown’s relentless energy, fierce competitiveness, and leadership qualities led Celtic through one of their most successful eras, including a historic quadruple treble. Over his 14-year tenure, Brown cemented his legacy as one of Celtic’s greatest-ever captains.

Celtic’s Global Influence: Football Culture and Beyond

Mikael Lustig of Celtic celebrates his sides third goal with his team mates while wearing a police mans hat during the Scottish Premier League match between Celtic and Rangers at Celtic Park on April 29, 2018 (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Beyond football, Celtic FC’s influence reaches global cultural spheres, including digital entertainment and financial services. This phenomenon is particularly visible in online gaming and entertainment, where fans prefer secure payment options tailored to their needs. For example, neteller-friendly casinos favoured by seasoned gamblers are increasingly popular among fans who prioritise reliability and convenience, aligning perfectly with modern online entertainment trends.

Additionally, football enthusiasts, known for their discerning choice of digital payment methods, are often drawn toward Trustly casinos highly rated by payment experts. Such platforms provide transparency, security, and efficiency, characteristics highly valued by modern users who have grown accustomed to seamless digital experiences.

Expert Commentary and Personal Reflection

The enduring legacy of Celtic FC’s legends is deeply intertwined with the club’s core values of pride, passion, and commitment. Football historian, Dr. Ian Ferguson, aptly summarises: “These Celtic legends embody more than footballing brilliance; they encapsulate a sense of community, identity, and enduring dedication that resonates across generations.

“In my own view, what sets these players apart isn’t merely their on-field exploits, but their capacity to inspire, unite, and foster a deeply rooted sense of belonging among fans worldwide.”

Conclusion: Legends Shaping Celtic’s Future

These 10 legends have left an undeniable mark on Celtic Football Club, securing their places in the hearts of fans and in football history. Their achievements, dedication, and passion have defined the club’s identity, inspiring future generations to carry forward the proud Celtic legacy. As Celtic continues to evolve, the contributions of these iconic figures remain timeless reminders of what it truly means to wear the famous green and white hoops.