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Celtic Diary Friday March 3: Tributes and Tittle Tattle

Tributes continued to flow for Tommy Gemmell, the lion who fell asleep , and although it was a sad day, i’m fairly sure the memories put a smile on more than just my face.

Gemmell had been ill for some time, and his passing was not entirely unexpected. Maybe the timing of the McNeills announcement about Billy’s dementia helped to allow tommy a quiet and dignified last few days.

What is important now is that we show the lions who remain how much we appreciate them, how much we value them and how much what they did means to all of us. Lets keep the memories and ad new ones. The stories are legendary, as are the players.

 

Celtic return to cup action this weekend, and host St. Mirren, a side who have been having a hard time of it in the First division, but with Hibernian adding Efe Ambrose to their side, the buddies managed to get a rare win in the week.

Ah, Efe Ambrose.

The big Nigerian seems to think he got a hard time from Celtic fans… ever since an own goal in that friendly against Barcelona. The first one, in Dublin , that is. Not the 7-0 game.

“Dublin was the turning point for me, but that’s football,”“I am a defender. I tried to stop it but I slipped and the ball bounced off my shin. It can happen to anyone in football.

“After that day I was sad about the reaction, but I was just trying to do my job and defend. I wasn’t trying to kick the ball in the net, it’s not normal. I was just trying to defend. That’s my job…to defend.

“Sometimes you get it right, sometimes you get it wrong. But when it happens, that’s when you need the people’s support. I didn’t get it that day. But that’s life. When the team is doing well, nobody picks on anyone. When the team were doing badly, they started picking.

“Since Celtic have been winning, nobody has been playing bad, everyone has been good. But when they were not doing well, that’s when the fans started to pick on players from the team. I’ve never regretted anything. I always tried my best. I always stood up and kept fighting.”

No matter what else you say about him, he never did hide.

“Well, for me it’s been difficult and at the same time it’s been great,” .

“I have used the opportunity to work on myself and I have learned more from the gaffer and his coaching staff. They have been great with me. The helped me a lot even if I wasn’t playing

“I never missed a training session. I have always been in there working hard. Okay, I didn’t get a chance (to play) but football is all about ups and downs. Sometimes it’s you, sometimes it’s someone else.

“I had to focus and work even harder. At the same time, it’s the best time to work on things so, when I got the chance to play, everything would be right.” 

Whatever you think of him as a player, and opinion is at best divided, he’s a great guy, and someone is going to get a bargain when he moves on. hopefully he can put Celtic behind him and regain his confidence. It looks like it may be a Scottish club he goes to, especially as he’s available for nothing and he wants to stay here..

“It is important to me because I have been here for a few years now and I know what it means to get it for me and my family,”“For me, my family comes first. My daughter was born here, which I believe will help me get citizenship here.

“My wife is studying at University and trying to graduate. I just want to make Scotland my home for my family and that has been in the back of my mind. “Everything has been nice, terrific. I’ve never missed my home and I have always called Scotland my home. So for me to be part of Scotland and my children to be Scottish would be an amazing thing for me.”

Because thats all he lacks, and some in the the support must hold their hands up and accept some of the blame for that.

Momadi Fofana, the agent for Moussa Dembele said a couple of weeks ago that;

“If he has to leave, that will happen at the right time, but it’s not in Moussa’s head or my head,” 

“In January, there was speculation, but there will always be speculation if he does well. It’s good, it means we are all doing well. The boy is doing well, Celtic is doing well and we as agents are doing the right things for everyone.”

The word on the street is that the player and his agent feel that his current high profile means its the right time…

Image result for leigh griffiths celebration

It would explain why the manager is still looking at other options and spending time bedsitting Leigh Griffiths…

 

It’s kind of inevitable that Dembele will leave one day, hopefully later rather than sooner, as he really is a class act. during a recent Etims podcast i stated that he didn’t have an outstanding attribute to his game, such as heading, free kicks, pace etc.. , and the reason for that is that he’s actually outstanding in all of these categories.

It’s just that none of them stand out over any of the others.

Scott Sinclair, the unsung hero of this season, goes even further..

 “Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez would be the most clinical strikers I’ve played with – and I could throw in Didier Drogba as well!

“I’ve been lucky to play and train with some good strikers but Moussa’s got all the attributes. He’s scoring goals and has that mentality to want to do better and better.

“It’s great to see. He’s similar to those I mentioned. He’s learning and I’m sure he watches YouTube clips and he’s trying to learn off the best. That’s what any young striker does.

“As a striker, and the confidence he’s got, he’s scoring every week. He got back-to-back hat-tricks and for him his development is unbelievable. He’s a massive player.

“I hope he can get more than 40 goals – the way he is going it’s certainly possible. I’m sure he’ll be looking to break that target as well and he’s definitely going to play for France soon. 

“Everyone has got to look at how many goals he has scored and how well he is doing. He is a loud voice in the dressing room and is much more comfortable with all the boys.”

And Dembele himself ?

 I just try to do my job as a striker and score goals.”  

Inevitably , there have been comparisons with Henrik Larsson. Who is the better player ? Well, Demeble has about thirty years on the Swede, so he’d probably beat him for pace.

Larsson scored 53 goals in one memorable season, can’t remember which, and that may be a target for the Frenchman.

He has 31 so far, and at least two games against “rangers “, so I suppose its possible.

Speaking of possible…don’t forget this guy..

Of course, “rangers ” may yet get in a new manager who can turn their season around, and several names have been touted before the gullibillies are told they prefer a “rangers ” man and announce Alex McLeish on a pay as you go deal.

There may not be a DoF appointment, but the hordes can rest assured the DoB is safe for the moment.

Image result for jimmy bell rangers

Even if the club/comapny/basket of assets isn’t…

Rangers will have to pay the legal bills of former chief executive Charles Green and billionaire businessman Mike Ashley after the club halted a legal action.

Lawyers for Rangers attended the Court of Session in Edinburgh because the club’s current owners object to a 2012 deal which allowed Mr Ashley’s Sports Direct to have the “naming rights” to Ibrox Stadium.

The club’s legal team alleges former directors Charles Green, Imran Ahmad, Brian Stockbridge and Derek Llambias acted negligently during their time at the club.

 

Rangers believe the men did not act in the business’ best interests when they negotiated commercial deals with Sports Direct.

 

The deals the club are objecting to include an October 2012 agreement in which the directors allowed Sports Direct to have the “naming rights” to Ibrox stadium.

Rangers believe the naming rights were given to Sports Direct at a price well below their true market value.

On Thursday, lawyers acting for Rangers went to Scotland’s highest court in a bid to recover documents from Mr Green, Mr Ahmad, Mr Stockbridge, Mr Llambias, Sports Direct and Mr Ashley.

They believe the recovery of the documents would help their case against those involved in the deal.

During a two-hour hearing, lawyers acting for Rangers tried to amend the legal document which detailed what they wanted to recover.

The advocates representing Mr Green, Mr Ahmad, Mr Stockbridge, Mr Llambias, Sports Direct and Mr Ashley objected to the proposed changes.

They argued they needed time to consult their clients about the amended proposals. 

This prompted lawyers acting for Rangers to withdraw the proposed amendments and stop the bid to recover the documents.

Lawyers acting for the defenders in the case then asked the court for Rangers to pay their legal costs for the hearing as Thursday’s proceedings were “unnecessary”.

Judge Lord Brailsford agreed with the submissions made by the lawyers appearing for the five men and Sports Direct.

He added: “Today’s hearing has been unnecessary and I award each of the defenders their expenses.”

It is not known how much the Glasgow side will have to pay for Thursday’s hearing. It is thought to be several thousands of pounds. 

Oops, that is what is commonly referred to as a kick in the haw maws.

As the club metaphorically leans forward, the boot to the chops can;t be far away.

March 31, in fact, we hear.

Just four weeks from now….

Image result for jelly and ice cream when rangers die

Well, they can’t say we didn’t warn them.

well, they will. aided and abetted by a pathetically compliant mainstream media

Which brings us to

Knob of the Week… 

Jason Cundy reckons Celtic would struggle in the English top flight

 

This is Jason Cundy, of Talkshite radio, Murdochs voice of the airwaves which promotes the bloated and dismally unentertaining English Premier League, or whatever its called this week.

And here’s why he’s the latest Talkshite presenter to claim the crown.

He said;

 “I’ve looked on Twitter about how many people follow football clubs.

“Newcastle United have 1million followers, Celtic haven’t got half of that.

“There are some Championship clubs and I reckon even some League One clubs that have a better Twitter following than Celtic. 

“I know it’s not a science but it’s a barometer.

“Put me and Andy (Goldstein) together and you’ve got half of Celtic.

“They wouldn’t get anywhere near the top. You’re not Barcelona.

“I just don’t see it.

“I don’t doubt they’re supported well, but outside of Glasgow? Really?” 

Er, seems like it..

Celtic has developed a fanbase in a number of countries around the world, with over 160 supporters’ clubs in over 20 countries around the world.[5] Research in 2003 by Capita Consulting in conjunction with the Cranfield Institute estimated the worldwide fan base as being around nine million.[4] This fanbase has extended to Japan since 2005, when Japanese international Shunsuke Nakamura joined the club,[6] although the Tokyo Celtic Supporters’ Club had already been established in 2001.[7] In 2009, marketing agency Sports Revolution reported that there were an estimated seven million Celtic supporters in Japan alone.[8] There are Celtic supporters clubs in South Korea,[9] Sweden[10] Croatia, Germany, Denmark and Norway[11] while the club’s profile in Kenya has been boosted by a team in NairobiKibera Celtic, who were inspired by Celtic’s charitable roots and use the profits from football to fund charitable initiatives in Kenya and throughout Africa.[12] After the signing of Emilio Izaguirre in 2010, Hector Zelaya, the general manager of Izaguirre’s former club Motagua, said that Izaguirre had sparked “Celtic mania” in Honduras and that many people now supported them.[13]

In 2003 it was estimated that Celtic had a fanbase of one million in the United States and Canada.[4] In 2002, former Rangers F.C. director Hugh Adam claimed that Celtic were “the best-supported football club in North America” and that the club’s “Irish connection” was a determinant factor in their popularity.[14] In 2004, The Sunday Times, when commentating on several European teams who were touring in the U.S at the time, stated that clubs such as ChelseaReal Madrid and Manchester United attracted support in the United States only when touring the country. In contrast, Celtic were said to “have such a strong pre-existing relationship with a huge expatriate following here that their support will endure.”[15] There are around 80 Celtic supporters clubs in North America,[4] and nearly half of all U.S states have a Celtic supporters club.[15]

Celtic have also developed supporters clubs in Australia and elsewhere in the Southern Hemisphere.[16]

Celticbars InfoBars ABars BBars CBars DBars EBars FBars GBars HBars IBars JBars KBars LBars MBars NBars OBars PBars QBars RBars SBars TBars UBars VBars WBars XBars YBars ZCeltic Latest NewsSign & View GuestbookVenues AbroadYouTube Celtic BarsProfile of a CSCTims around the world

Well done, Jason, a thoroughly deserved Etims

Knob of the Week 

Talkshite Radio.

For Fuckwits, By Fuckwits.

 

Caption pic from Wednesday…

Winner from Wednesday.. superbly surreal
D’Fhinnein Mick March 1, 2017 at 9:41 am · Edit · Reply →

Latest initiative test for postal workers takes shape.

Today…

Harlem in the 1970s (22)

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Morto
7 years ago

The latest ‘outstanding candidate’ is interviewed for the Sevco job.

mike
7 years ago

I stick by my valuation, Dembele will go for £50 million pounds,
he is getting better and better.

Kung Fu Richie,
his baws are always itchie, (he needs to get them checked)
he”s never, ever bitchie,
he has us awe in stitchies,#
his diary has nae glitchies,
his humour”s filled with ritchies,
he overcomes any glitchies,
his car ran inta ditchies,
cos he wis pished.

Dziekanowski's nightclub child
7 years ago

Caption: hoi mate, do you want to be the new sevco manager?
‘Fuck off!’

bognorbhoy
7 years ago

The only transfer window open to the govan galacticos these days ?

Bob
7 years ago

So pleased For Effe getting a move as it was clear for sometime that he was not a part of our plans.I hope that he has gone to a support that will back him as he sadly didn’t get that with us, He wasn’t the worst player to pull on the hoops!Unfortunately the fuck ups he did make happened to be in high profile games.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Bob

Why ” pleased “?
He cost the team all the fucking time min….wake up for fuck sake!

Bob
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

No you wake up! that’s the problem with the “armchair” supporters they shout and scream about players they’ve never seen in the flesh.Supporters “encourage” players when they pull on the hoops

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Bob

When you watch Ambrose play, you need to take a fucking seat in the armchair.
He is fucking shite!

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Bob

Bob,
This ” Armchair ” obsession you have is a bit, well, stupid really.
Do you think by going to every game, that you are more special than another who simply can’t?
Do you think that by spending at the club superstore and online purchasing of Official Celtic merchandise, which in a year is probably comparable to the cost of a season ticket, supporting the club?
Of course it is!

Fud

Admin
7 years ago

Marvin Andrews eagerly awaits his Bravissimo delivery

schoosh71
7 years ago

It wasn’t confidence with Efe, it was his overconfidence. He thought he could dribble out and beat three midfielder rather than keep it ‘simple’. Can you ‘iron out’ the eternal optimism in someone, I don’t know, but I wish him all the best. HH

mike
7 years ago

Saint Mirren beat the Hibees this week, even with Efe, there results recently suggest that they might not be the walkover that some might think.
Mike Ashley, asset stripper unique, coming soon to Rankers a new provocative strip, nylons, suspender belt with tit enhancer,
woooft canny wait, am excited already, not!!.

Your in our hearts,
your in our souls,
your our best friend,
your Celtic.

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

How is the Holy Poet, has anyone heard anything since his back operation?

Tony Carlin
7 years ago

Efe lets himself go a bit after leaving the Hoops!

Leões de Lisboa
7 years ago

Caption:

Sevco hire top nutritionist to oversee world-class breakfasts.

Cartvale88
7 years ago

Caption
The big hoose is fine,

The ongoing legal saga of the Huns, they are so stupid, they just kept on givin.
As for talkshite radio, anyone that values KeithJacksons opinion, enough said.

Monti
7 years ago

Efe Ambrose is wothout doubt THE worst player to have played for Celtic!
A total disaster and i am delighted he has gone.
I don’t give two fucks how he does for Hibs, a circus clown at it’s unfunniest!

Goodbye, fuck off!

jimmybee
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Your very fortunate if Effe is the worst player you have seen in the hoops m8,being more long in the tooth there are quite a few I could name.
What I have never did is to boo mock or any other behaviour towards a Celtic player whilst he was on the field. Its disgraceful and its happened to better players than effe.
To me he is probably the unluckiest player I have ever witnessed,where he got away with nothing.But when your own turn against you its over. Ronnie didn’t help him

Stevie D
7 years ago
Reply to  jimmybee

Agree. Never worse than Joe Filipi or that guy (Frank Munro?) that scored 2 OGS – one of them a screamer from about 30 yards as I remember – on his debut.

Macca
7 years ago
Reply to  Stevie D

Not quite that distance but I was there for that and also Raphael Scheidt’s debut v St Johnstone . Defoe the worst 2 ever saw. Fillipi was class in comparison

7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Love you to meet him Monti don’t think he’s the worst player Celtic have ever had just put in the wrong position by naive coaches. He can play in my opinion

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Iancelt67

Bollocks!
He’s a fucking nightmare!

Bob
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

And thank God you are a stay at home fan as the true Supporters get behind players

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Bob

Bob,
Do you like to get behind ‘ players ‘?

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

That a yes then?

Gash67
7 years ago

The BIG House must stay open

mike
7 years ago

Caption, George Foreman struggles for air, after he lets out
a rumble from his bumhole in the junghole.

portpower
7 years ago

What a save from Craig Gordon.

Caption:
sevco welcome first occupants at their new 5* Grand Orient Inn.

Tim Buffy
7 years ago

Monti, I’ve been watching Celtic since the 1950s and can assure you I’ve seen hunners of players who were worse than Efe.

john young
7 years ago
Reply to  Tim Buffy

There are worse than Efe at CP even now,ffs the ghuy has been a regular for his country for years,andthey are way above the ranking that we achieve.

Bob
7 years ago
Reply to  john young

Exactly John! But surely you must know that the only person on this forum whose point counts is Monti if your opinion is not the same then he goes in the huff.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Bob

Bob,
That is nonsense, i respect everyone on here……apart from you you thick cunt!

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Tim Buffy

Pish!

BondiBrian
7 years ago
Reply to  Tim Buffy

Don’t worry, he’ll be gien GMS a hard time in the coming weeks. Mark ma words.

pemsionerbhoy
7 years ago

Ralph,

I am very sorry I have not been able to comment in this somewhat devastating but memorable week in our history. Memorable, because it brought back so many wonderful memories and devastating because of the two pieces of tragic news we heard. Unfortunately, I have had a lot of unavoidable commitments to the young people I support that have kept me away from ETims this past week or so. However, that does not excuse me from not at least just making a brief comment about two of Celtic’s true greats. So, my sincere apologies to you and all those phenomenal Tims that have written so movingly and so eloquently about the sad news of two of our greatest players. I am glad I have a bit of time this afternoon to say something.

I was fortunate enough to see both Billy and Tommy regularly for all their time at Celtic. I just watched Billy’s UEFA interview about the European Cup win and the tears are still streaming down my eyes because of the return of the highly-charged emotions of the time and the realisation that that proud articulate man on the screen would no longer be able to recount his wonderful memories of that occasion. In true McNeil and Stein style, he constantly refers to the fans and the part they played in the game itself but also in the players’ realisation of what they had actually done that evening in Lisbon. It was the support that made them Lions, Lisbon Lions for ever. Those who have not experienced it will perhaps find it hard to understand the rapport with and availability to fans that was the norm for Stein and his players. It was commonplace for players and management to attend supporters’ clubs’ annual dinner dances and other functions. In fact, it was regarded as a duty and players were often told what events they had to be at. It was just so different then and I am not sure from that point of view things have changed for the better.

I was a few years behind Big Billy, both physical and intellectually and that never changed, at Our Lady’s High School in Motherwell back “then”. Have I any memories of that time? Yes, he was a school prefect – maybe head prefect, I cannot remember – and, just like the Cesar he would become, he strutted the concourse (playground) like an emperor even then, especially when in the company of us “snotty-nosed wee yins”. I did not know then what he would become but if I had had the brains I would have recognised something outstanding in his posture, like a colossus simply striding anyone who stood in his way. It was a trait I would recognise many times on and off the field as he stuck that chest into many a face, including bigoted referees and lesser players as well as opponents who tried, generally unsuccessfully, to stand up to him. He was the nemesis we needed for a certain hard-man, Mr. Gregg, at least till Davy Hay took his place and frightened the “proverbials” out of the Rangers’ “Captain Courageous”. And he did not take lightly any carelessness or nonsense from his team mates. John Fallon could probably tell many a tale about the tongue lashings he received from Big Billy and, not infrequently to deflect from his own mistakes. Wee Ronnie was probably too wee and too old for even Billy’s wrath. I am not sure I would have liked Cesar’s attitude much on a playing field but I do know even my gentle, pleasant demeanour went out the window once I donned the strip and bits – never had a big enough chest to stick in anyone’s face mind. I have no doubt Billy McNeil, the gentleman, would have been unrecognisable to me off the park. Although I was often called a tough (maybe it was rough) little “prick” when I played, I could never begin to match Billy. Nor would I have had the balls and imagination of Billy to deal with annoying or mischief-making sports reporters. We can all talk all we want about Billy’s great saving goals such as the 90th minute winner against Vojvodina but, for me, Billy’s greatest ever crucial blow to an opponent was the punch to Gerry McNee’s jaw in that hotel (not a date man, I am afraid). How we could do with some of that today. We will miss Cesar’s leadership, his determination, his skill, his courage, his stature, his presence, his passion for the club and his recognition and love of the supporters, but, above all, we will miss him as one of the outstanding members of an outstanding family, a true Celtic icon. My prayers for Billy and his fantastic wife and kids.

As for Big Tam, I only ever got the chance to say a passing hello once outside the main entrance at Celtic Park after a game one day. I was greeted by an “I’m fine, thanks” accompanied by that impish smile that seemed cemented to his face and a rascally twinkle in the eyes that reeked of devilment. Even up close, he was incredibly like Danny Kaye, at least the one I knew from the silver screen – never actually met him, you know. I must agree with Bertie that some of the antics I saw Tommy get up to would have surpassed many a performance by the highly-rated Mr. Kaye (he may even have won an Oscar or two if Warren Beatty had not been at the ceremonies). But it is Tommy’s performances on the park that stand out. There is no need to go into detail as so many have been listed in so many other places. However, there are a couple of things that younger fans may not quite appreciate. You see, and remember I go back to that far-gone era, I was never ever in awe of someone’s shooting as I was of Big Tam’s, including Roberto Carlos. It was truly awesome and must have been terrifying for keepers to face. I reckon had I tried to head one, I would not be writing this today. It is often forgotten how accurate he was too. I am no Charlie Saiz so I simply do not have the stats, but if you were in line with the goals, more often than not, you were tempted to duck in case the ball came straight through the net. This was particularly true of penalties. They, in fact, are the proof, if needed, of how accurate he was, 31 successes out of 34, only 3 misses. Incredible! He hit them so hard at times that even if the keeper got to them, they simply flew through him, not past him, I mean through him. The other outstanding attribute was his overlapping wing-play. Younger fans may take it for granted having seen Lustig and Tierney do it week in and week out. But back then, it was practically, if not actually, unknown. It was among so many innovations of the genius that was Jock Stein, up there with changing numbers on strips then introducing numbers on pants and socks, all the psychological gamesmanship, all perhaps insignificant in their own way, but contributing to all round confusion for the opposition. Tommy was the ultimate “overlapper”. Jim Craig was generally more cautious and composed. I believe Mr. Stein had to rein Tommy in more than once as his outside left ambitions got the better of him. Now, Big Tam terrorised wingers and I mean terrorised, often before the game even kicked off. It would not be unusual to see him make some crack to the opposing winger as they took up positions prior to kick off. If that was the case, how confusing and more terrifying must it have been for defenders to see this giant who was meant to stop the winger, bombing down on them like an out-of-control rocket ready to destroy everything before it. If only you could all feel how I feel right now (those of my generation surely will) just remembering, still part trembling and part “gobsmacked”. As a footnote, I wonder if that Racing gangster has managed to recover his balls yet. He must have had a long pull. Tommy, not enough yet everything has been said about you by those that knew you, just watched you and simply heard about you. You were big in stature and especially in nose but, above all, in heart, one that never stopped loving Celtic and its fans even in the face of religious bigotry. That says it all for me.

God bless you Tam and bring comfort to your wife, children and all your family and friends. You will always be part of our indomitable Celtic family, our extraordinary and unique memories, a source of inspiration to every true football supporter and an example to all of us that love of people and commitment to their just cause can overcome all barriers. In doing so, you have become a leader and a pillar of the Celtic ethos – open to all and for all for ever.

May you rest in peace, Big Tommy Gemmell.

Sorry I got carried away, Ralph. I guess I had not realised how much these guys mean to me but I am so glad the events of this week, sad though they are, have reminded me. The news of them both has been both sorrowful and delightful in equal measure.

H H

Pensionerbhoy
7 years ago
Reply to  pemsionerbhoy

Just seen why it did not post mmmmmmmmmmmmmm instead of nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn.
It was nonsense anyway!!!!

H H

AntonDeclan
7 years ago
Reply to  pemsionerbhoy

Pensionerbhoy (not pemsionerbhoy?), best post EVER on The Diary, well done sir. Very enlightening, great description of what Celtic means to us all and the great relationship we have (or should have) with all players (bring back attendance at CSC functions!). Your heartfelt words just brought a tear to my eye. Take care PB and God bless. YNWA.

Wisnae me
7 years ago

Caption:

Postal worker initiative test. Level 2.

Pensionerbhoy
7 years ago

Ralph,

I think I messed up my first post so here is my edited version.

First of all, I am very sorry I have not been able to comment in this somewhat devastating but, at the same time, memorable week in our history. Memorable, because it brought back so many wonderful memories and devastating because of the two pieces of tragic news we heard. Unfortunately, I have had a lot of unavoidable commitments to the young people I support that have kept me away from ETmis this past week or so. However, that does not excuse me from not at least making a brief comment about two of Celtic’s true greats. So, my sincere apologies to you and all those phenomenal Tims that have written so movingly and so eloquently about the sad news of two of our greatest players. I am glad I have found a bit of time this afternoon to say something.

I was fortunate enough to see both Billy and Tommy regularly for all their time at Celtic. Before writing this comment, I was watching Billy’s UEFA interview about the European Cup win and the tears are still streaming down my cheeks because the highly-charged emotions of the time have all returned and I the realisation has now hit me that that proud articulate man on the screen would no longer be able to recount his wonderful memories of that unique occasion and his Celtic career. I was moved by the way, in true McNeil and Stein style, he constantly refers to the fans, not only for the part they played at the game itself but also how their reaction on their return to Glasgow made the players finally realise what how significant and momentous about their achievement. It was the support that made them Lions, Lisbon Lions for ever. Those who have not experienced it will perhaps find it hard to understand the rapport with and availability to fans that was the norm for Stein and his players. It was commonplace for players and management to attend supporters’ clubs’ annual dinner dances and other functions. In fact, it was regarded as a duty and players were often told what events they had to be at. It was just so different then and I am not sure, from that point of view, things have changed for the better.

I was a few years behind Big Billy, both physically and intellectually and that never changed, at Our Lady’s High School in Motherwell back “then”. Have I any memories of that time? Yes, he was a school prefect – maybe head prefect, I cannot remember – and, just like the Cesar he would become, he strutted the concourse (playground) like an emperor even then, especially when in the company of us “snotty-nosed wee yins”. I did not know then what he would become but if I had had the brains I would have recognised something outstanding in his posture, like a colossus simply striding anyone who stood in his way. He did not suffer little fellows lightly. It was a trait I would recognise many times on and off the field as he stuck that chest into face after face over the years, including bigoted referees, lesser players and arrogant opponents who tried, generally unsuccessfully, to stand up to him. Big Billy, Cesar, was arrogance personified and, as long as we were not at the receiving end of it, it was a joy to watch, especially against “the peepil”. He was the nemesis we needed for a certain hard-man, Mr. Gregg, at least till Davy Hay took his place and frightened the “proverbials” out of the Rangers’ “Captain Courageous”. And he did not take lightly any carelessness or nonsense from his team mates. John Fallon could probably tell many a tale about the tongue lashings he received from Big Billy and, not infrequently, to deflect from the centre half’s own mistakes. Wee Ronnie was probably too wee and too old for even Billy’s wrath. I am not sure I would have liked Cesar’s attitude much on a playing field but then, even my gentle, pleasant demeanour would go out the window once I donned the strip and bits – never had a big enough chest to stick in anyone’s face mind. I have no doubt Billy McNeil, the man, the gentleman, would have been unrecognisable to me off the park. Although I was often called a tough (maybe it was rough) little “prick” when I played, I could never begin to match Billy. Nor would I have had the balls and imagination of Billy to deal with annoying or mischief-making sports reporters. We can all talk all we want about Billy’s great winning goals such as the 90th minute header against Vojvodina but, for me, Billy’s greatest ever crucial blow to an opponent was the punch to Gerry McNee’s jaw in that hotel (not a date man, I am afraid). How we could do with some of that today. It is sad we will be without Cesar’s leadership, his determination, his skill, his courage, his stature, his dominant presence, his passion for the club and his recognition and love of the supporters these days, but, despite that, he will remain one of the outstanding members of an outstanding family, a true Celtic icon. My prayers for Billy and his fantastic wife and kids.

As for Big Tam, I only ever got the chance to say a passing hello once outside the main entrance of Celtic Park after a game one day. I was greeted by an “I’m fine, thanks” accompanied by that impish smile that seemed cemented to his face and a rascally twinkle in the eyes that reeked of devilment. Even up close, he was incredibly like Danny Kaye, at least the one I knew from the silver screen – never actually met him, you know. I must agree with Bertie that some of the antics I saw Tommy get up to would have surpassed many a performance by the highly-rated Mr. Kaye (he may even have won an Oscar or two provided Warren Beatty was not at the ceremonies). But it is Tommy’s performances on the park that stand out. There is no need to go into detail as so many have been listed in so many other places. However, there are a couple of things that younger fans may not quite appreciate. You see, and remember I go back to that far-gone era, I was never ever in awe of someone’s shooting as I was of Big Tam’s and that includes Roberto Carlos. It was truly awesome and must have been terrifying for keepers to face. I reckon had ever had the chance to head one, I probably would not be writing this today. It is often forgotten how accurate he was too. I am no Charlie Saiz so I simply do not have the stats, but if you were in line with the goals, more often than not you were tempted to duck in case the ball came straight through the net. This was particularly true of penalties. They, in fact, are the proof, if needed, of how accurate he was, 31 successes out of 34, only 3 misses. Incredible! He hit them so hard at times that even if the keeper got to them, they simply flew through him, not past him, I mean through him. The other outstanding attribute was his overlapping wing-play. Younger fans may take it for granted having seen Lustig and Tierney do it week in and week out. But back then, it was practically, if not actually, unknown. It was among so many innovations of the genius that was Jock Stein, up there with changing numbers on strips then introducing numbers on pants and socks, all the psychological gamesmanship, all perhaps insignificant in their own way, but contributing to all round confusion for the opposition, that little edge that can make the difference. Tommy was the ultimate “overlapper”. Jim Craig was generally more cautious and composed. I believe Mr. Stein had to rein Tommy in more than once as his outside left ambitions got the better of him and I wonder how long his head would have remained on his shoulders, if the overlap for the first goal in 1967 had not come off. He had disobeyed orders and overlapped when the other full back was already up the park. You see, the line between success and failure can be a very thin indeed. Thankfully, Tommy was on the right side in Lisbon.

Now, Big Tam terrorised wingers and I mean terrorised, often before the game even kicked off. It would not be unusual to see him make some crack to the opposing winger as they took up positions prior to kick off. If he put the fear of God into them, how confusing and more terrifying must it have been for defenders to see this giant who was only meant to stop wingers, bombing down on them like an out-of-control missile ready to destroy everything before it. If only you could all feel how I feel right now (those of my generation surely will) just remembering, still part trembling and part “gobsmacked”. As a footnote, I wonder if that Racing gangster has managed to recover his balls yet. He must have had a long pull.

Tommy, not enough yet everything has been said about you by those that knew you, just watched you or simply heard about you. You were big in stature and especially in nose but, above all, in heart, one that never stopped loving Celtic and its fans even in the face of religious bigotry. That says it all for me.

God bless you Tam and bring comfort to your wife, children and all your family and friends. You will always be part of our indomitable Celtic family, our extraordinary and unique memories and a source of inspiration and example to every genuine football supporter making us aware that love of people and commitment to their just cause can overcome all barriers. In doing so, you have become a hero and a pillar of the Celtic ethos – open to all and for all for ever.

May you rest in peace, Big Tam Gemmell. You are a true legend.

Sorry I got carried away, Ralph. I guess I had not realised how much these guys mean to me but I am so glad they have reminded me. The news of them both has been both sorrowful and delightful in equal measure.

H H

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  Pensionerbhoy

Great post Pensionerbhoy, just great. Long in tributes, long in rhetoric, long in eloquence, long in accuracy, long maybe but a heartfelt tribute to, two giants of Scottish fitba. Will we ever see there likes again? who knows, but it would be great to think so.
H.H.

Pensionerbhoy
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

Thank you mike. I doubt there will ever be players like them ever again. But, as they go to another place, do we really want to fill the gaps with someone else? Each era has its heroes but some have one offs and the Lions were one offs by a Glasgow mile. Even when they left – or were chased out – we never stopped seeing them as anything other than The Lisbon Lions and they never were nor will be.

Thanks again, mon ami,

H H

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  Pensionerbhoy

My first game, the 60/61 cup final, Crerand, Cesar, Chalmers,Fernie, Clark, et al. Celtic v Dunfermilne, with big Jock in charge of the pars.
Big Tam joined the hoops later that year, the very beginning of the “Lions” methinks, the palpable excitement of Jock, joining his Celtic love, still resonates.
Met big Tam years later, going for our weekly shop near Stirling, he always smiled and nodded, me knowing that I was SO very lucky, to meet a true fitba. giant.
Never ever thought that I would see another Dixie Deans or Harry Hood Joe Mc Bride, then look who comes along, Henke, so never ever say never again. H.H.

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

That’s to me btw cos you are right of course, there will be individual player who come to Celtic, great players, but never the “Lions”, that TEAM was/ is unique.
We will never see there like again.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Pensionerbhoy

Pensionerbhoy,
Great stuff m8!

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Caption, Monti shouts pish oot the windae.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Only to warn folk they might get speared by your conk if they don’t duck!

Pensionerbhoy
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Monti,

Many thanks. We all feel the same methinks. We are so lucky to have been alive to see it all.

I love the patter between you and mike, by the way. It’s just like your water, warm with a warning :0

H H

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Aye ok mr blobby.

Uralius
7 years ago

Caption: I just wanted to be part of Scotland, so when I hung up my boots I started eating lots of haggis suppers.

7 years ago

Pensioner thing I like about stein was that he was a winner and it was in his blood to win. He was however ruthless and when the player brought the game into disrepute like big ram did against the animals of racing he took measures to ostracise him. He thought collectively but I’m sure both tam and jock had hearts of lions and not weak men. Tam went to Dundee for lashing out protecting his mates against the kraiuts Discipline was important to big jock fair play what a man and what a man big tam was. We’re lucky to support which I think is the greatest team in the world.

jimmybee
7 years ago

I don’t care how much they are offering,I’m no playing for that mob,says the much sought after Quatar Centre back to his departing boss.

7 years ago

Worst player with fantastic ability was berkovic a shitebag with bags of ability I formulated that opinion ion when we drew against the Huns at Celtic park when viduka scored. He’s a coward to me that’s the worst kind of player you don’t need

rondo52
7 years ago
Reply to  Iancelt67

don’t forget Raphael shite and Du wee ( against Clyde).

PJGreenandwhite
7 years ago

Efe Said I would come out for 5’s but I cannae find my bra!

Patrickqu
7 years ago

Pensioner, we shall have to meet up sometime as I went through Our Lady’s High School with Caesar. We used to choose the 5 a side tournament in the 6th year.

Pensionerbhoy
7 years ago
Reply to  Patrickqu

Patrickq

You were probably a bit ahead of me and I left for foreign climes in ’57. It was either that or I was being chucked out, I think. They thought I only knew how to use reverse gear which was not exactly the aim of the school. My progress was very downhill, slowly but very surely! However, I am certain we could share memories of Rufus, Wee McCann, Jimmy Reid, Monsieur Dunverno and that cracking music teacher. I was always happy for her to pull my strings – can’t remember her name. She gave me many a slap, though – with the belt 🙂

It would be great to meet up. Unfortunately I am an exile below Hadrian’s Wall these days and I don’t know what’s going on but they keep adding bricks and barbed wire every time they see me trying to leave :). I think my wife is a secret agent. She certainly keeps me a secret from everybody. But then again she is a daughter of the empire. The foolish things you do in youth! Not true, I love her so. You will have guessed she just came in.

I get up to see family now and then but it is usually time to go back by the time I have got round them. I have also been very busy – I know, at my age! – this past year and it does not look like easing off any for now. I keep trying to recruit younger people but the minute they see me they go pure white and run.

Always open to suggestions though.

H H

Thanks for replying

H H

Pensionerbhoy
7 years ago
Reply to  Patrickqu

Patrickq,

I did reply but the old moderator must have given me a fail. Wonder if he went to Our Lady’s?

I am in England and do not get back home much. However, if it is possible, i would like to meet. Of course, if you are ever brave enough to visit my neck of the woods, you would most welcome. If you want to pursue this further, ask Ralph or Desi for my email address.

H H

SteveNaive
7 years ago

Unphotoshopped picture of Jason Cundy

Pensionerbhoy
7 years ago

Caption: “What happened to your mansion?”

“Somebody told me to invest in the Texas Rangers but I think I picked him up wrong.”

H H

Rudebhoy
7 years ago

Caption – Bobo’s gonny whit?

portpower
7 years ago

🙂

Pedro Caixinha,the man with the Magic Montera.

Are we all to wear this fancy coup?
Wrapped,courtesy of SMSM.

sevco suit of bloo lights FC.

Stevie D
7 years ago

Caption: This is America daftie; you canny ask yer Ma to fling ye doon a piece here. You’d end up in the ‘lectric chair!

portpower
7 years ago

Front-page HEADLINE:

Gary Rowett,the manager with effete charm.

mike
7 years ago

How tickled I am, I bend doon, like in the chapel, along comes a sailor, taps me oan the shooder and hey presto I’m a Knight,
night, night, Knight.
The new Rankers anthem,

We are the diddy men, diddy men,
we are the diddy men and our team are diddies toooooo.

Rob O'Keeffe
7 years ago

Caption: I call one Cundy and the other,Goldstein!

P.S.Fellow Celts.After the news about 2 of our greats,have some dignity and don’t have petty arguments about dodgy players.Leave that PISH to the Sevconites.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Rob O'Keeffe

Rob,
Well said.

That Bob isn’t right in the head……

Pensionerbhoy
7 years ago

Caption: “Did you just call me a big tit, ya blind bastard?”

H H

mike
7 years ago

Well how me love how he shock,
rummaging around in ma auld sock,
swinging like ma auld grandfathers clock,
come along girl cause a road block,
oh Carolina ching ching ching aling,
watch me groove do ma thing.
oh Carolina, please treat me like yer auld auld china.hahaha.
No matter how hard we try to cheer up after this terrible weeks news, the reality is, two icons, one gone, one suffering, is difficult to take.

Peter Cassidy
7 years ago

Caption: “I told you to stay off the salt n sauce big man”

portpower
7 years ago

If for any reason you`re wondering why BondiBrian is absent,
he`ll be too busy tonight at the Hordern Pavilion. 🙂

Remember to talc they chaps,BB.HH

Somewhere over the rainbow…

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  portpower

I’m definitely no wondering 🙂

BondiBrian
7 years ago
Reply to  portpower

Ah know. Pure gutted it was pishin doon, mascara, glitter no a pretty site. Oh the fun.

HAIL HAIL THE CELTS ARE HERE.

Monti
7 years ago

Caption: Efe Ambrose shouts for help after locking himself in his flat.
Doh!!

mike
7 years ago

Well Cunty got his hee haws well and truly booted by Brendan and Nir, ignorant, stupid, ill informed, a complete TIT, what a dumpling, well said Brendan and Nir.
A knighthood for the “Lions”, not so sure, but something special has to be done in recognition of the best fitba. team that graced the beautiful game.
We don’t need anyone else to do it, WE could crowd fund something, perhaps a competition to find an appropriate reward for our most marvellous team of “Lions” and there family.
HAIL, HAIL, THE LIONS, you the most special team.

mike
7 years ago

Sinn Fein within one seat of the DOBs the end game nears its climax, ooooooohhh that wis good, in power sharing, that’s soon to be ditched, only problem is, that same DOBs will all come over here, me, I might move to ITALY. yahoooo.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

Mike,
A lot of big noses in Italy, you’ll fit in!

Try Rome 🙂

portpower
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Does Venice no have the medico della peste carnival?

Trust me i`m a Doctor. 🙂

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

I luv just luv Rome, been mair times than, most Italians, he he.

it wilny be difficult, just dress in my dungarees and my milk bowl, stand outside the Vatican and await donations, then head up to my favourite Shitty Florence, scratch oot some chalk drawings oan the pavement and hey presto, sorted, I will send you a postcard, to Homer, the Simpsons, wish you were here, a big swally, up to Milano and watch the fitba. pick up a couple of native lovelys, then Paradise found.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

Grande naso fresco!

portpower
7 years ago

Jason Cundy;
Accompaniment to bear from an unaccomplished ex-footballer.

portpower
7 years ago

If the flying winger Barrie McKay had scored?

First scorer today in a 1-2 defeat.

YNRA

Puggy67
7 years ago

Caption: Arnold from Different Strokes begins to regret starting the Kris Boyd diet

portpower
7 years ago

Memo to sevconian players.

If and when you decide that you`ve had enough don`t go
trying to cripple an opposition player.

Feign an injury like the rest of your loyal team-mates.

7 years ago

Caption
Dembele it’s the year 2038 when 40 million could get you a single end in shettleston

Monti
7 years ago

Don’t know if anyone is watching the Belgrade championships?
Was watching the womens hurdles….fucking hell those shorts were a bit tight…and short.
Disgusting exploitation of women.

Ok honey you can take the pause off now 🙂

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  Monti

Funnily enough I was just watching the Russian womans mud fight one lost her bra and 40 blokes dashed into the mud to find it, there wis some amount of fiddling around in the mud pool, some of the blokes looked like they were gonny enter the pole vaulting championship.
Och well the things you get up to when,
when your young and in love,
scratch ma back with your glove.
Whaurs itchie baws the day, yoo ken, mrs dales diary? must be pished or mair like doing the messages, as he wis telt, never fails to amaze me, awe these mini macho types, sound of the misses and of they go, yes darling, anything you say darling, want a cup of tea darling? sookie c—nts.

portpower
7 years ago
mike
7 years ago

IF YOU WANT THE “LIONS” TO RECEIVE AN HONOUR FOR THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS THEN E-MAIL THIS TO THE DAILY MAIL.

Scot.Sport@dailymail.co.uk

IT WOULD BE GREAT IF AT LONG LAST THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS WERE FULLY RECOGNISED, IN THIS 50TH ANNIVERSARY.

Stevie D
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

I don’t understand why the Lisbon Lions would value being recognised in a corrupt honours system by a monarchy and a hierarchy of parasites any right-thinking person should despise and thoroughly abhor. Tell them to keep their knighthoods for the creeping, toadying,sycophantic, grovelling bastards that actually covet them and think they stand for anything.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  Stevie D

Stevie D,
Totally agree!

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  Stevie D

Neither do I, but why not give them and their families the choice, why should much lesser achievements be recognised and theres not.

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

If Brendan recognises and wishes their achievements to be recognised, then why not, its up to them.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

I agree m8

However i would not bow in front of her, i would not accept a knighthood.
I do not recognise her!

Brits out!

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

Monti, it is a disgrace that big Jock did not join Sir Matt Busby, Sir Alex Ferguson, both big fans of Jock, Bobby Charlton and fitba. administrators in getting the Knighthood and recognition that he certainly deserved.
Bobby Lennox, Cesar and one other member of the Lions were also awarded medals.
Its no important to me, but if Brendan wants that special team to get the recognition that they fully deserve, then I’m with him all the way.
I have witnessed countless people accepting these so called Honours including top Union leaders, its their choice and their right to accept them if they wish.

Monti
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

Fuck her and her honors list!
The lions are sacred to us!

portpower
7 years ago
Reply to  mike

Mike,
in my eyes they`re Saints.

mike
7 years ago
Reply to  portpower

Me to port, I only want for them to get everything that they deserve, even if it is almost 50 years to late, just think, fitba. administrators have had Knighthoods, they deserve that recognition surely, if not for them, then for their families.
Anyway its Brendan;s request, he wants that recognition, and yes you are correct, they embody everything that the beutifull game is all about.

portpower
7 years ago

41 SPFL teams aren`t feart.

Those officiating the game are.

We are witnessing corruption in motion here.

portpower
7 years ago

SPFL protection racket.
That is what it is.

What happened to Kenny Miller?
Occasional indulgence catching up?

Murty`ll be a genius now.

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