Maestros and pioneers
From football trailblazers to world class players, Scottish football has helped influence and shape the development of the World's Game
A small nation of giants
For a country of 5.5million, Scotland has a reputation for producing exceptional talents. There has been an abundance of precocious wingers, like the late Davie Cooper of Clydebank, Rangers, Motherwell and Scotland who was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2006
Paul McStay jersey, Sweden 1992The Scottish Football Museum
Of maestros and men
Many Scots chose to ply their trade at home, turning down attractive European moves. One was midfield legend Paul McStay, who wore this jersey at UEFA EURO 1992. Scotland adopted an unconventional numbering system - which was why Celtic's 'Maestro' wore the number 3.
Alex James branded football bootsThe Scottish Football Museum
Heading south
However many Scottish stars became legends abroad and been of particular influence in England. Alex James is one of Arsenal’s greatest players, winning four leagues and two FA Cups. He was known for his assists, helping Arsenal set a record of 118 goals in 1933.
Bon Accord Cup winner's medalThe Scottish Football Museum
The boy from Brazil
There have been pioneers and innovators. This Bon Accord Cup winner’s medal was presented to Archie McLean of Sao Paulo Athletic Club. Nicknamed 'Veadinho' (little deer) he moved to South America in 1912 and is viewed by many as the 'Forgotten father of Brazilian football'.
Dundee v Milan, European Cup semi-final programme 1963The Scottish Football Museum
European contenders
In the early days of European football, Scottish clubs were among the main contenders. In 1963, Dundee reached the semi-final of the European Cup having defeated Sporting Lisbon and Anderlecht on the way. They were knocked out by AC Milan who went onto win it.
Kilmarnock v Leeds United, Inter-Cities Fairs Cup semi-final programme 1967The Scottish Football Museum
An annus mirabilis
In 1966/67 season, as Celtic won the European Cup, Kilmarnock reached the semi-final of the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup and Dundee United defeated Barcelona in the same competition. Rangers also reached the final of the Cup Winners Cup.
Real Madrid shirt, 1967The Scottish Football Museum
How the Lions roared
In 1967, Celtic won every competition they entered. Among the highlights of the season was Alfredo Di Stefano’s testimonial match at the Bernabeu. Celtic's Jimmy Johnstone stole the show as the Bhoys won the match 1-0 and 'Jinky' claimed the hearts of the Real Madrid fans.
Dunfermline v Valencia matchday programme, 1962The Scottish Football Museum
The immortal Mr Stein
Celtic were managed by the legendary Jock Stein in ’67, who led them to nine titles in a row. He also achieved the extraordinary with Dunfermline, winning the Scottish Cup and completing one of the greatest comebacks in Fairs Cup history, rallying from 4-0 down to beat Valencia.
Queen’s Park team photo featuring Alex Ferguson, 1958/59The Scottish Football Museum
Fergie
A certain Alex Ferguson, pictured bottom right as a player with Queen's Park, served as Stein's assistant with Scotland and went on to be regarded as the greatest manager in the history of English football, restoring Manchester United as one of football's giants.
Football Memories
No matter how much time passes these legends will never be forgotten. Their names adorned banners, like this Rangers Brake Club flag celebrating Alex Craig, and were sung in the stands. They are remembered today by fans and the SFA’s ground-breaking Football Memories Project.
All images by Jeff Holmes - www.jshpix.co
Copyright - Scottish Football Museum
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