Scottish soccer’s nice tapestry has been made all of the richer by the number of threads which have been interwoven throughout 150 years.
A nation which has prided itself on seeing homegrown sides conquer Europe additionally takes enjoyment of witnessing its best exports excel on international soil.
This doesn’t preclude any observer from appreciating how a lot poorer the home recreation could be and not using a willingness to open our doorways.
Whereas the mass importation of mediocrity is a continuing risk to the aspirations of our subsequent technology, the acquisition of supreme skills from down south and overseas ought to at all times be valued and inspired.
Who cares if their stays right here have gotten more and more quick? Supplied they improve our sport, entertain, educate others and enrich their golf equipment earlier than shifting on to larger issues, that ought to by no means be a priority. It’s, certainly, one thing to be celebrated.
So right here is the countdown of Scottish soccer’s finest imports. Let the controversy start.
The legendary George Finest in motion for Hibernian in opposition to St Mirren in 1979
50. George Finest
George Finest’s time in Scotland might have been temporary, however it was actually memorable. To Hibernian followers, no less than.
The previous Manchester United legend spent lower than 12 months strutting across the Easter Highway turf, scoring 3 times in 22 league appearances. Hardly eye-catching.
However these boots nonetheless contained some magic. Scarcely plausible performances in opposition to each halves of the Previous Agency would attest to that.
Contemplating he was a part of a squad which was relegated from the highest tier, to not point out being banned by the membership for indulging in a heavy consuming session with the French rugby staff in Edinburgh – sure, you learn that proper – it’s exhausting to consider he’s nonetheless held in such esteem amongst Hibernian helps.
Geniuses – even the flawed ones – are inclined to have that impact.
England striker Ian Wright joined Celtic on mortgage from West Ham in 1989
49. Ian Wright
Having been introduced in on mortgage as a substitute for Henrik Larsson following the Swede’s leg break in opposition to Lyon, Wright was on a hiding to nothing.
He bought off to the right begin with a debut purpose at residence in opposition to Kilmarnock, however simply two extra have been to comply with as Celtic toiled beneath a clearly out-of-his-depth John Barnes.
Wright – a part of the staff which famously misplaced 3-1 to Inverness Caledonian Thistle within the Scottish Cup – might by no means fairly recreate the type of type which made him a bona fide legend at Arsenal earlier in his profession.
Manchester United legend Roy Keane celebrates scoring for Celtic in opposition to Falkirk in 2006
48. Roy Keane
For a person whose checklist of achievements in soccer can arise in opposition to the very best of them, it’s a disgrace that his time in Scotland will perpetually be related to a bleak afternoon on the outskirts of Cumbernauld.
Sure, that 2-1 defeat to lowly Clyde within the Scottish Cup nonetheless sends shivers down the backbone of many a Celtic fan nearly 20 years on. So far as debuts go, it was the stuff of nightmares.
But it turned out to be a largely profitable six-month interval in Glasgow for the previous Republic of Eire and Manchester United captain, who received a Premier League and League Cup double beneath Gordon Strachan.
His imperious show in a vital 2-1 win over Rangers at Ibrox throughout the league run-in proved he might nonetheless be counted on on the high degree.
Aged 34, he was compelled to retire that summer season on medical recommendation. A tragic finish to a unprecedented profession.
Spain star Victor Munoz taking part in within the 1986 World Cup earlier than his shock transfer to St Mirren
47. Victor Munoz
When the Spaniard signed for St Mirren in 1990, he was aged 33, had performed for his nation 60 occasions and had received a number of honours with Barcelona and Sampdoria.
There was a respectable concern that the Buddies had been duped into signing a participant who was over the hill. This was instantly seen to be unfounded.
Whereas he solely lasted six months in Paisley, the place he joined with ex-Barca team-mate Steve Archibald, he was totally majestic.
Self-confessed Celtic fan Robbie Keane scored 12 objectives in 16 video games in 2010
46. Robbie Keane
Everybody loves a little bit of drama on deadline day, and Celtic followers have been out in power to see all of it unfold on a bitterly chilly evening again in February 2010.
The mortgage signing of Tottenham ahead Robbie Keane represented one thing of a coup for then supervisor Tony Mowbray, however you get the impression that the boyhood fan would have performed at Parkhead at no cost.
Donning the No. 7 worn by the likes of Jimmy Johnstone and Henrik Larsson, Keane scored 12 objectives in 16 league appearances throughout the second half of the season, and was frankly a continuing pest to opposition defenders.
Whereas he was unable to assist ship any silverware, followers topped him their Participant of the 12 months. Keane was a chink of sunshine in an in any other case dire marketing campaign.
Craig Bellamy joined Celtic on mortgage from Blackburn Rovers in 2005
45. Craig Bellamy
The truth that Craig Bellamy’s mortgage transfer to Celtic got here as a direct results of a falling out with former Rangers boss Graeme Souness at Blackburn Rovers meant he was off to begin with the Parkhead help.
A elegant hat-trick in opposition to Dundee United was quickly adopted up by netting the opening purpose in a 2-1 Previous Agency win at Ibrox, however his efforts proved to be in useless after seeing the league title slip away on the ultimate day of the season with defeat at Motherwell.
He did no less than decide up some silverware, lifting the Scottish Cup – the primary main honour of his profession – the next week at Hampden.
His refusal to signal a Rangers high on a go to to Glasgow with Manchester Metropolis a number of years later demonstrated his respect for his earlier employers. Or dislike of his former rivals.
Both method, Celtic followers beloved it.
Mark Walters and Richard Gough have fun after serving to Rangers win the League Cup in 1990
44. Mark Walters
With English golf equipment banned from European competitors, gamers jumped on the likelihood to check themselves in opposition to the very best on the continent at Rangers.
Mark Walters loved a stellar profession at Aston Villa all through the 80s, and arrived in Glasgow with first rate pedigree.
As the one black man within the Scottish high flight, he was subjected to abhorrent racist abuse from the stands all through his time right here, however he refused to buckle, and have become certainly one of Rangers’ most constant performers on the left of midfield.
Three straight Scottish Premier Division triumphs later, he returned to England with Liverpool.
A trailblazer, with expertise besides.
Mixu Paatelainen celebrates after scoring for Hibernian in opposition to Hearts in 2000
43. Mixu Paatelainen
Performed for brand new fewer than six Scottish sides in between spells in England and France and is fondly remembered at all of them.
Launched to life right here when he joined Jim McLean’s Dundee United in 1987, his free-scoring exploits took him to Aberdeen, Hibs (twice), St Johnstone, St Mirren and Cowdenbeath.
Managed to overshadow the hat-trick he claimed for the Easter Highway membership in a 6-2 win over Hearts by going head-over-heels in celebration.
Had the misfortune to play in Scottish Cup finals for 3 totally different sides and misplaced all of them. An enormous man who made an enormous impression wherever he went.
Sergei Baltacha performed for St Johnstone for 3 seasons within the Nineteen Nineties
42. Sergei Baltacha
A elegant defender who graced St Johnstone’s jersey for 3 seasons from 1990 when he might have been taking part in at any membership in Europe.
Developed by the legendary Valeriy Lobanovskyi, Baltacha performed for Dynamo Kyiv for a dozen years throughout which he received the Cup Winners’ Cup and the Soviet league and cup, each on 4 events.
Featured for the Soviet Union on the 1980 Olympics, the 1982 World Cup – the place he scored – and the 1988 European Championships earlier than a spell at Ipswich and a transfer north.
Nomadic English striker Simon Stainrod helped Falkirk to the First Division title in 1991
41. Simon Stainrod
There isn’t any doubt First Division Falkirk bought greater than they bargained for once they paid French membership Rouen £100,000 to signal Stainrod in 1990.
The much-travelled English striker left two years, 60 appearances and 21 objectives later to affix Dundee as player-manager. However Bairns supporters nonetheless discuss Jim Jefferies’ legendary facet – led by captain Stainrod – that received promotion to the Premier Division with an exciting model of attacking soccer.
Nicknamed ‘God’ by the Brockville trustworthy, Stainrod didn’t rating extraordinary objectives. From chipping St Johnstone goalkeeper Lindsay Hamilton from the midway line at McDiarmid Park to sealing a well-known win over Celtic with a superb diving header.
Stefan Klos and his Rangers team-mates have fun after profitable the 2002 Scottish Cup
40. Stefan Klos
The German arrived at Ibrox in 1998 as a Champions League winner having lifted the trophy with Borussia Dortmund the earlier 12 months and lived as much as his star billing.
Throughout 9 years at Ibrox, he made extraordinary saves look nearly routine and is taken into account one of many best goalkeepers within the membership’s historical past.
Stored six consecutive clear sheets to assist Rangers raise the treble in 2002/03 and would go on to win 10 main honours.
England midfielder Ray Wilkins made greater than 60 appearances for Rangers
39. Ray Wilkins
The Englishman was an influential determine on the coronary heart of the Rangers facet whose league triumph within the 1989-90 season kickstarted a relentless interval of domination for the Glasgow giants which delivered eight extra titles on the trot.
A chic midfielder with an uncanny capacity to make the attractive recreation look superbly easy, he was a category act.
His thunderbolt in opposition to Celtic throughout a 5-1 thumping in August 1988 – certainly one of simply two objectives he scored for the membership in additional than 60 appearances – continues to be fondly remembered by those that have been there to see it.
Swedish winger Orjan Persson performed for Dundee United and Rangers within the Nineteen Sixties
38. Orjan Persson
The Swede was the primary of 5 Scandinavian imports signed by Dundee United supervisor Jerry Kerr within the mid 60s.
His wing play lit up Tannadice and ensured United first steered away from relegation earlier than taking them into Europe for the primary time.
Had three years at Rangers from 1967 the place he solely appeared to attain spectacular objectives. Featured for Sweden in successive World Cups.
Paolo Di Canio had one eventful season at Celtic earlier than leaving for Sheffield Wednesday
37. Paolo Di Canio
Solely performed one season with Celtic after becoming a member of from AC Milan in 1996 and didn’t really win something.
However his abilities have been nothing wanting mesmerising. The Italian might do issues with a soccer that others couldn’t even think about. A born entertainer with a brief fuse, no recreation he was concerned in was ever boring.
Left for Sheffield Wednesday after famously having a ‘little drawback’ with Fergus McCann. Didn’t precisely change into a Trappist monk in England.
Istvan Kozman joined Dunfermline from Bordeaux and was offered on to Liverpool
36. Istvan Kozma
The midfielder sprinkled star mud on East Finish Park for 3 years from 1989.
Signed by Jim Leishman for £550,000 from Bordeaux, nonetheless Dunfermline’s file switch payment, the Hungarian might win video games on his personal and sometimes did.
His efficiency as he hit a hat-trick in opposition to St Mirren in 1989 is a part of Pars’ folklore. Moved to Liverpool beneath Graeme Souness in 1992.
South African born Johnny Hubbard was referred to as the ‘penalty king of Ibrox’
35. Johnny Hubbard
The person who’d finally change into referred to as the ‘penalty king of Ibrox’ really had quite a few claims to fame.
Born in Pretoria, he signed for Rangers in 1949 and have become the primary African participant to finish within the European Cup when he confronted Good in 1956 and was additionally the primary from that continent to attain a purpose within the competitors.
It was his exploits from 12 yards out for which the winger is finest remembered. Hubbard scored 65 of the 68 spot-kicks he took together with a run of twenty-two consecutive conversions.
Theo Snelders celebrates after serving to Aberdeen win the 1990 Scottish Cup ultimate
34. Theo Snelders
Signed by Aberdeen from FC Twente in 1988, the keeper had the unenviable job of changing Jim Leighton but demonstrated himself to be thought-about a worthy successor to the Gothenburg nice.
The Dutchman had presence and prowess. He received the PFA participant of the 12 months award in his first season and lifted the League Cup and the Scottish Cup in his second, together with his penalty save to disclaim Celtic’s Anton Rogan pivotal.
Had 5 years as a back-up at Rangers however the Dons, unquestionably, noticed the very best of him.
Jorg ‘The Hammer’ Albertz scored 69 objectives for Rangers in 189 appearances
33. Jorg Albertz
The German midfielder did rating some extraordinary objectives throughout his 5 years with Rangers. It simply didn’t really feel prefer it.
Able to launching pictures that have been akin to guided missiles, he’d no concern of making an attempt his luck from any distance.
Finest remembered for a very outrageous strike in opposition to Celtic in 1997, he earned the sobriquet The Hammer.
Dutch striker Pierre van Hooijdonk performed 92 video games for Celtic, scoring 56 objectives
32. Pierre van Hooijdonk
Signed by Tommy Burns from NAC Breda halfway by means of season 1994-95, Van Hooijdonk was tasked with ending Celtic’s trophy drought which was threatening to increase to 6 seasons.
It took him simply 5 months to ship together with his towering header in opposition to Airdrie claiming the Scottish Cup.
Not only a nice goalscorer however a scorer of nice objectives. His free-kicks, particularly, have been a factor of marvel. Managed to attain 32 occasions in his first full season.
His time in Glasgow ended badly when he fell out with Fergus McCann, however there was no disputing what a fearsome proposition the Dutchman was at his peak.
Jorge Cadete scored 38 objectives for Celtic in his first season in Scotland
31. Jorge Cadete
He second of the Three Amigos to reach at Celtic when he signed from Sporting Lisbon, the noise which greeted his debut purpose in opposition to Aberdeen blew out radio microphones.
The Portuguese terrorised defenders in his solely full season in Glasgow together with his tempo, talent and easy ending. Scored 38 objectives that 12 months with out taking a single penalty.
As soon as named his pet chicken Fergus. No rationalization required. Appeared in Portugal’s model of Huge Brother. And briefly performed for Patrick Thistle. Bonkers however totally sensible.
Czech midfielder Rudi Skacel received two Scottish Cups with Hearts
30. Rudi Skacel
The Czech midfielder’s journey previous to signing for Hearts initially on mortgage in 2006 spoke to his pedigree; Slavia Prague, Marseilles and Panathinaikos.
Having helped the Gorgie males to 1 Scottish Cup in opposition to Gretna in 2006, he moved to Southampton, however returned to Tynecastle and repeated the trick by scoring twice within the 5-1 win over Hibs in 2012. Completed because the membership’s high scorer in successive seasons.
Wasn’t the identical participant when he pulled on the colors of Dundee United and Raith Rovers and positively didn’t search to win recognition contests with opposing followers. None would dispute how distinctive he was in a maroon jersey.
Danish goalkeeper Erik Sorensen performed 232 occasions for Morton within the Nineteen Sixties
29. Erik Sorensen
When he got here to Morton for a trial recreation in 1963, supervisor Hal Stewart refused to call him for concern that one other membership would are available. Thus the Danish keeper grew to become recognized within the media as ‘The Man in Black’ – a reference to his uncommon equipment.
Performed 232 occasions throughout seven years at Cappielow both facet of a single season with Rangers. The 24 clear sheets he recorded on the Tail of the Financial institution in 1966-67 stays a membership file.
Sacrificed his worldwide profession to remain in Scotland till Denmark dropped their ‘amateurs solely’ coverage.
Seen as being forward of his time, Sorensen made as massive a contribution to Morton as any of the slew of Danes that Stewart introduced in in that period.
Amoruso scored the profitable purpose for Rangers within the 2003 Scottish Cup ultimate in opposition to Dundee
28. Lorenzo Amoruso
Endured a tricky begin to life at Rangers after becoming a member of from Fiorentina in 1997 when he suffered an Achilles harm.
Recovered to take the captain’s armband beneath Dick Advocaat, noticed off a number of challengers for his place then endured a loss in type.
Bounced again spectacularly beneath Alex McLeish, although, profitable 5 out of six trophies in what proved to be his ultimate two years on Glasgow.
Signed off by scoring the profitable purpose in opposition to Dundee within the 2003 Scottish Cup ultimate.
Irish goalkeeper Pat Bonner remodeled 500 appearances for Celtic
27. Pat Bonner
The Irish shot-stopper spent his whole skilled profession at Celtic, making over 500 appearances for the membership.
It might have been simple sufficient to leap ship in the hunt for extra success throughout that point, with trophies exhausting to return by in Glasgow’s east finish. The actual fact he celebrated simply 5 league titles in nearly 20 years is one thing of a travesty.
Bonner’s performances between the sticks at membership degree noticed him earn 80 caps for his nation, the place he’s nonetheless revered as one of many nation’s all-time sporting heroes.
A dramatic penalty shootout save within the 1990 World Cup second spherical in opposition to Romania which helped seal their development to the final eight is the stuff of legends on the Emerald Isle.
Artur Boruc helped Celtic to the last-16 of the Champions League two years operating
26. Artur Boruc
Honoured the long-standing custom of the very best goalkeepers being slightly bit off the wall.
On his day, although, the Pole was extra like a brick wall, breaking strikers’ hearts up and down the land with saves which defied all logic.
Gained three titles in his 4 years with Celtic and helped take Gordon Strachan’s facet to the final 16 of the Champions League in successive seasons. Set a brand new commonplace for keepers at Parkhead.
Dutch midfielder Ronald de Boer signed for Rangers from Barcelona in 2000
25. Ronald de Boer
Arrived at Rangers on the flip of the century having received the Champions League with Ajax, however having struggled at Barcelona. It’s truthful to say his confidence hadn’t suffered.
Added objectives, guile and sophistication to the facet beneath each Advocaat and McLeish and was an instrumental a part of the staff which received the treble on 2003.
Many would argue they he was probably the most naturally gifted participant in an period when Ibrox was plagued by high skills.
English midfielder Trevor Steven received seven league titles and three League Cups at Ibrox
24. Trevor Steven
The English midfielder’s arrival at Rangers went considerably beneath the radar amid a flurry of high-profile signings – not least that of Mo Johnston – however he would change into a mainstay within the staff which received the league title in his first season.
A transfer to Marseille didn’t pan out as he’d hoped, and it wasn’t lengthy earlier than he was again in Glasgow to assist the membership add extra silverware to their assortment on the expense of metropolis rivals Celtic.
Seven league title wins and three League Cups represented a greater than first rate return from a gifted participant who usually flew beneath the radar.
Morelos is Rangers’ file European goalscorer with 29 objectives in continental competitors
23. Alfredo Morelos
Sufficient has been mentioned about Rangers’ failure to money in on him when the time was proper and his subsequent transgressions.
At his peak, the Colombian was the actual deal in a Rangers jersey. Aggressive, courageous and scientific, he bullied defenders and scored barrels of objectives.
No matter you may take into consideration his temperament and lack of focus off the sector, he scored 29 occasions to change into the membership’s file European goalscorer. It is going to be a very long time earlier than anybody takes that off him.
Welsh striker John Hartson received six trophies in 5 years at Celtic
22. John Hartson
John Hartson’s standing as a Celtic icon isn’t up for debate. But it might have been so very totally different.
The massive frontman had all however signed on the dotted line at Rangers only one 12 months earlier than pulling on the Hoops, however a failed medical torpedoed the deal.
It turned out to be a blessing in disguise for the Welshman, who was snapped up by Martin O’Neill the next summer season for a payment of round £6m. The remainder, as they are saying, is historical past.
He would go on to win six trophies throughout 5 years at Parkhead, and was instrumental within the staff’s historic run to the 2003 UEFA Cup ultimate, together with his gorgeous long-range strike in a 2-0 quarter-final victory over Liverpool undoubtedly his standout second.
Japanese striker Kyogo Furuhashi scored seven objectives in opposition to Rangers in a calendar 12 months
21. Kyogo Furuhashi
Had the stealth of a cat burglar and predatory instincts that ought to have been contained in a nature reserve.
After becoming a member of Celtic from Vissel Kobe, he supplied weekly clinics in how you can outfox defenders by means of shrewd motion.
Turned the primary Celtic participant in historical past to attain seven objectives in opposition to Rangers in a calendar 12 months. By frequent consent, the membership’s biggest striker for the reason that days of Henrik Larsson.
Dutch star Giovanni van Bronckhorst received 5 main honours with Rangers
20. Giovanni van Bronckhorst
His pedigree might be seen from outer-space. Unfailingly oozed class in Rangers’ star-studded midfield throughout three years from 1998 as he received 5 main honours.
Within the best traditions of Whole Soccer, he might play wherever. As comfy at left-back as a extra superior place.
Signed to exchange Emmanuel Petit at Arsenal, he went on to win the Premier League in North London and the Champions League with Barcelona as he chalked up 106 caps for the Netherlands. Rangers have been simply grateful they’d him for therefore lengthy.
Nice Dane Finn Dossing scored 76 objectives in 115 appearances for Dundee United
19. Finn Dossing
Dundee United’s personal Nice Dane was a part of the wave of Scandinavian stars that arrived on our shores within the Nineteen Sixties.
From the minute he signed from Viborg, he dominated supreme for 3 years because the Tannadice membership’s quantity 9, scoring 76 objectives in 115 appearances.
Scored simply 14 seconds right into a recreation in opposition to Hamilton. Claimed a hat-trick on the day United hit 5 with out reply alongside the highway in what grew to become referred to as the Dens Park bloodbath in 1965. Netted the winner in opposition to Juventus within the Gala’s Cup in 1966.
If he have been round as of late, his switch payment would appear to be a phone quantity.
Virgil van Dijk was an impressive presence throughout his two years at Celtic
18. Virgil van Dijk
After his first coaching session as a Celtic participant, Neil Lennon informed the Dutchman to get pleasure from his time in Glasgow whereas it lasted as he wouldn’t be there for lengthy.
Lennon had seen the defender at Groningen and couldn’t consider that the large golf equipment within the Netherlands weren’t in for him.
Really had a couple of tough moments in his first season at Parkhead, however as soon as he was up to the mark he cruised by means of matches.
12 months-on-year enchancment with Southampton and Liverpool turned him into the very best defender on the planet.
World Cup star Claudio Caniggia scored eight objectives in 25 appearances for Dundee
17. Claudio Caniggia
Across the flip of the century, journeys to Dens Park felt such as you have been going by means of the wanting glass. None was extra surreal than the day the Argentinian legend was paraded.
This was Diego Maradona’s accomplice in crime, a person who counted River Plate, Roma, Benfica and Atalanta amongst his former golf equipment. Even on the age of 33, El Pajaro (The Chicken) might nonetheless fly.
Turned a Dundee legend within the area of a season earlier than two years with Rangers the place he received 5 trophies.
Arthur Numan received 10 trophies in his five-year spell at Rangers
16. Arthur Numan
Arrived in 1998 as a Dutch World Cup star and dazzled on the Ibrox stage for 5 seasons.
Tenacious within the deal with, he might instigate assaults together with his laser-like passing and dribbling abilities. Utilized gray matter when dealing with opponents who might outpace him.
Would have made extra appearances in mild blue had it not been for accidents but nonetheless lifted 10 honours in Glasgow earlier than retiring.
Northern Irish midfielder Neil Lennon was a key participant for Celtic beneath Martin O’Neill
15. Neil Lennon
Alongside Paul Lambert, Lennon was paramount to Celtic’s resurgence beneath Martin O’Neill having adopted his former Leicester Metropolis supervisor north in 2000.
Certainly, his switch was very a lot precedence No 1 within the eyes of the brand new Parkhead boss.
A fierce competitor, he supplied the platform from on which his extra, let’s say, naturally gifted colleagues might shine. Doing the soiled work was his bread and butter.
The Northern Irishman additionally managed the membership over two profitable spells, profitable 10 trophies and orchestrated certainly one of their most iconic European victories: a 2-1 win over a Barcelona facet that includes the likes of Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, and Lionel Messi.
Lennon guided Hibernian to promotion from the Scottish Championship, and made his return to the second tier earlier this 12 months after taking on at Dunfermline Athletic.
Bulgarian midfielder Stiliyan Petrov made 288 appearances for Celtic, scoring 64 objectives
14. Stiliyan Petrov
The Bulgarian spent his first 12 months beneath John Barnes at Celtic taking part in out of place at right-back.
Felt so remoted off the park that he labored in his good friend’s burger van so he might study English.
Was utterly reworked the minute Martin O’Neill walked within the door in 2000.
A dynamic box-to-box midfielder, Petrov would attain double-figures in three of his six subsequent seasons in Glasgow.
A mainstay of the facet which dominated in Scotland and reached the 2003 UEFA Cup ultimate.
Danish full-back Kai Johansen joined Morton earlier than shifting to Rangers within the Nineteen Sixties
13. Kai Johansen
One other one of many dozen Danes the legendary Hal Stewart took to Cappielow within the 60s, the full-back made such an impression on Scot Simon that he paid £20,000 to take him to Rangers.
Having been pissed off at Simon’s unwillingness to let him make his trademark explosive ahead runs, King Kai, as he grew to become recognized, made his emotions clear.
Simon relented. His religion was rewarded with Johansen netting the one purpose of the 1966 Scottish Cup ultimate replay in opposition to Celtic with the participant additionally instrumental within the facet’s run to run to the 1967 European Cup Winners’ Cup ultimate, the place they misplaced to Bayern Munich.
Gillhaus (proper) celebrates Aberdeen’s 1990 Scottish Cup win with Snelders and McLeish
12. Hans Gillhaus
When Aberdeen signed the ahead from PSV Eindhoven in 1989, his acquisition appeared too good to be true. It turned out, it wasn’t.
Having began out with Den Bosch, this was the person PSV Eindhoven turned to once they offered Ruud Gullit to AC Milan. He received the treble there in his first season, together with the European Cup, however agreed to maneuver to the Dons for £650,000 as a result of Romario was first alternative.
Proved to be the right foil for Charlie Nicholas. Introduced himself with an outrageous overhead kick as he scored twice in opposition to Dunfermline, his distinctive expertise lit up Pittodrie throughout three seasons.
Terry Butcher received three titles and two League Cups for Rangers after signing from Ipswich
11. Terry Butcher
Lookup no-nonsense within the dictionary, and also you’ll probably discover a mugshot of Terry Butcher.
The centre-half was appointed Rangers captain by supervisor Graeme Souness instantly after making the transfer from Ipswich City in 1986, and lifted three titles and two League Cup trophies throughout his time north of the border.
The England stalwart as soon as famously booted the referee’s door off the hinges following an ill-tempered conflict at Pittodrie. Subtlety was by no means his robust swimsuit.
As a supervisor, he went on to win promotion to the highest flight with Inverness Caledonian Thistle earlier than guiding them to a first-ever top-six end.
Hungarian Zoltan Varga performed 31 video games for Aberdeen in 1972-73 earlier than shifting to Ajax
10. Zoltan Varga
The Hungarian would have been nowhere close to Scottish soccer have been it not a for a betting scandal.
A star for Ferencvaros within the Nineteen Sixties, he signed for Hertha Berlin however was banned from German soccer for 2 years when he was caught up in match fixing.
The midfielder solely performed 31 occasions for Aberdeen in 1972-73 but his outrageous talent and passing capacity left an indelible mark.
Would have stayed for longer within the Granite Metropolis had Ajax not been searching for a substitute for Barcelona-bound Johan Cruyff.
Scott McDonald scored 51 objectives in 88 appearances for Celtic
9. Scott McDonald
The Celtic supporter from Australia grew to become the toast of each Rangers fan all through the world when his late double for Motherwell noticed the title dramatically go to Ibrox in 2005 on what grew to become referred to as Helicopter Sunday.
It wanted a robust character to subsequently signal on the dotted line at Parkhead and earn the affections of the inexperienced and white legions however he managed to do this.
Amid a blizzard of objectives got here a late winner in opposition to reigning European champions AC Milan and a brace in opposition to Rangers because the 2008 title race got here down the house straight.
Slovak midfielder Lubomir Moravcik proved to be a cut price signing for Celtic
8. Lubomir Moravcik
Whereas it’s not fairly correct to say that the midfielder’s profession previous to becoming a member of Celtic came about in obscurity, it stays a thriller why his expertise wasn’t given a much bigger stage than the likes of Bastia and MSV Duisburg.
Zinedine Zidane actually thought so. The Frenchman claimed Moravcik was the most effective No10s he’d ever seen.
Regardless of taking part in with him for 4 years, Henrik Larsson nonetheless couldn’t say which one of many Slovak’s toes was the stronger.
He as soon as trapped an extended ball together with his bottom. Within the basic 4-3 match in opposition to Juventus, he nutmegged Pavel Nedved. He might cease like an ice skater and make worldwide defenders appear to be pub gamers. And all for £330,000.
Japanese worldwide Nakamura was a set-piece specialist in his time at Celtic
7. Shunsuke Nakamura
The free-kicks alone have been a factor of marvel. He received a league with one at Rugby Park. His 30-yarder in opposition to Manchester United’s Edwin van der Sar may simply win any argument over the very best one ever witnessed within the Champions League.
But there noticed a lot extra to Celtic’s Japanese midfielder. Gordon Strachan signed him from lowly Reggina as Martin O’Neill’s nice Seville facet got here to its pure finish.
His contact, inventive creativeness and talent to execute outrageous passes have been astounding. They earned him 5 main honours and a Ballon d’Or nomination.
Invariably immersed in ice baths or pounding a treadmill the minute he left the park, his dedication to his craft knew no limits. It helped take Celtic to dizzying heights.
Champions League winner Sauzee earned the nickname ‘Le God’ throughout his spell at Hibernian
6. Franck Sauzee
Le God wasn’t all over the place throughout his spell with Hibs. For opposing strikers, there should have been occasions when it simply felt prefer it.
Sauzee was heading in the direction of 34 when Alex McLeish by some means persuaded the person who’d received the Champions League with Marseilles to maneuver to Leith.
The Frenchman was impervious to the advancing years, although. Skillful, robust and possessing a cannon of a left-foot, he instinctively knew the place to be on the pitch on the proper time.
Whether or not deployed in midfield or latterly in a back-three, he was a colossus.
He famously introduced champagne into the dressing room to have fun a victory over Hearts earlier than the sport. Hibs received 6-2. He was by no means on the dropping facet in a derby.
Every day, the Easter Highway trustworthy give thanks that he walked amongst them.
England striker Chris Sutton received eight trophies in his six seasons at Celtic
5. Chris Sutton
Sutton fashioned one half of the UK’s most feared striker partnerships at Blackburn Rovers alongside Alan Shearer, and the Premier League winner would repeat the trick at Celtic.
Henrik Larsson’s already elite recreation hit new heights when Sutton arrived from Chelsea in 2000, with the pair immediately growing an nearly telepathic relationship.
A debut purpose in opposition to Dundee United earlier than a double – certainly one of which coming after simply 18 seconds – in a 6-2 annihilation of Rangers only a few weeks later bought his Celtic profession off to a flying begin, and he by no means seemed again.
Eight honours over six seasons tells its personal story.
Rangers paid Lazio £4.3m to signal England playmaker Paul Gascoigne
4. Paul Gascoigne
Gazza might not have been on the peak of his powers when he opted to swap Serie A for central Scotland in the summertime of 1995, however his pure expertise was there for all to see.
The cheeky – to not point out, controversial – Geordie burst on to the scene at Newcastle United within the mid-80s, and went on to change into a world-class operator at Tottenham – the place he was nominated for the Ballon d’Or – earlier than touchdown at Lazio.
Walter Smith satisfied the Rangers board to half with a club-record £4.3m to lure him away from the Italian capital, and evidently, he was price each penny.
He slotted right into a facet already brimming with high quality, profitable 4 trophies in three spellbinding seasons, and his contribution was formally recognised with a berth within the Rangers Corridor of Fame.
The sheer delight he took in winding up Celtic supporters was an added bonus for the Rangers trustworthy, who regard him as one of many biggest gamers to ever pull on the well-known blue jersey.
Mark Hateley received the league each season he performed for Rangers
3. Mark Hateley
Having starred on the continent at AC Milan and Monaco – the place he performed beneath a sure Arsene Wenger – Hateley returned to the UK in 1990, becoming a member of a number of of his English worldwide team-mates at Ibrox.
5 league titles on the bounce adopted, with Hateley main the road alongside Ally McCoist.
However it might be silly to counsel that there was extra to his recreation than merely being a goal man. He stands amongst a choose few to have netted over 100 objectives for the membership, and remarkably, lifted the league trophy in each season he was on the books.
Danish star Brian Laudrup lit up Scottish soccer throughout his 4 seasons at Rangers
2. Brian Laudrup
The Dane shone so brightly at Ibrox throughout 4 seasons that retinas might have been broken.
Elegant, inventive and fast throughout the turf, his shut management let him jink previous opponents who seemed they have been store window mannequins.
He had versatility to go together with his artistry. Whether or not taking part in out large, in midfield or often as a ahead, he supplied moments of breathtaking high quality. His flying header at Tannadice in 1997 sealed a file equalling nine-in-a-row.
A world class expertise who gave Rangers glory all through his peak years, he set an ordinary for outsiders which stays impossibly excessive.
Swedish striker Henrik Larsson scored 242 objectives in 315 video games at Celtic
1. Henrik Larsson
Might need wanted to go away by the again door at Easter Highway after a forgettable debut there in 1997. By the point the curtain got here down on his Celtic profession, they have been calling for a sedan chair.
The Swede would have been classed amongst Parkhead’s all-time greats if he’d solely been passing by means of. But, he gave them seven years and his finest years at that.
Even in a Celtic facet brimming with distinctive gamers, Larsson was on a airplane of his personal.
His ending was elegant. He might dribble and will cling within the air to go the ball. His appreciation of area was extraordinary. He might play as an orthodox striker or in a supporting position.
All of those qualities have been ballasted by unstinting utility and professionalism.
He scored 242 objectives in 315 video games. It might have been extra had he not damaged his leg in Lyon.
He nonetheless discovered time to return off the bench and win the Champions League for Barcelona.
Followers of the Catalan membership will perpetually remorse that they didn’t see extra of the Swede. Celtic supporters won’t ever tire of telling them what they have been lacking.
