Former Celtic manager Tommy Burns, who passed away at the age of 51 after a battle with cancer, was widely remembered as both an exceptional footballer and a remarkable person. Celtic described Burns as a “true Celtic legend and wonderful man,” reflecting the deep respect and affection he commanded within the football community.
Burns’ career at Celtic spanned from 1974 to 1989, during which he won six league titles and five Scottish Cups. After his playing days at Celtic, he joined Kilmarnock as a player-manager in 1990, before returning to Celtic as manager in 1994. During his managerial tenure, Burns led the team to a Scottish Cup victory in 1995. He later served as an assistant to Kenny Dalglish at Newcastle United and as a coach for the Scottish national team under managers Berti Vogts and Walter Smith.
Gordon Strachan, who became Celtic’s manager in 2005, promoted Burns to first-team coach and spoke emotionally about his friendship with Burns, describing him as not only a great footballer but also as a man of exceptional character. Strachan recalled their final conversation, filled with humor and warmth, just hours before Burns passed away.
Celtic’s chief executive, Peter Lawwell, hailed Burns as one of the club’s “favorite sons,” and acknowledged his ability to bridge the football divide in Glasgow, a city known for its intense rivalry between Celtic and Rangers. In a moving gesture, Rangers fans paid their respects by leaving scarves at Celtic Park, a rare and powerful symbol of unity.
Tributes also poured in from beyond the football world. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown remembered Burns as a great footballer, a devoted family man, and a tireless charity worker. Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson expressed his sadness, recalling a recent conversation with Burns and lamenting the return of his illness.
Tommy Burns’ legacy as a footballer and a person will be cherished by all who knew him, both on and off the pitch.
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