Today marks the 80th anniversary of the tragic passing of John Thomson, the Prince of Goalkeepers.

Having collided with Rangers forward Sam English during a derby match on 5th September 1931, John received a fatal blow to the head of which he never recovered and was sadly, pronounced dead later that day.

A memorial service was held yesterday at the graveside in John’s hometown of Cardenden, Fife with a large turnout of visitors wishing to pay their respects.  Tributes were laid by many in attendance, which included Scott Brown and various Celtic Supporters Clubs.

A group of Celtic supporters had earlier on Friday left from Celtic Park and walked the 50 odd miles to be at the graveside just as the 30,000 or so mourners had for John’s funeral in 1931.

John joined Celtic at the age of 17 and was known for his agility,bravery and safe hands, who produced some magnificent displays of goalkeeping.

Willie Maley said the following of John:

“Among the galaxy of talented goalkeepers whom Celtic have had, the late lamented John Thomson was the greatest. A Fifeshire friend recommended him to the Club. We watched him play. We were impressed so much that we signed him when he was still in his teens. That was in 1926. Next year he became our regular goalkeeper, and was soon regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers in the country.

But, alas, his career was to be short. In September 1931, playing against Rangers at Ibrox Park, he met with a fatal accident. Yet he had played long enough to gain the highest honours football had to give. A most likeable lad, modest and unassuming, he was popular wherever he went.

His merit as a goalkeeper shone superbly in his play. Never was there a keeper who caught and held the fastest shots with such grace and ease. In all he did there was the balance and beauty of movement wonderful to watch. Among the great Celts who have passed over, he has an honoured place.”

In total, John Thomson made 211 appearances for Celtic between 1927 and 1931.

Rest in Peace John, the Prince of Goalkeepers.

John Thomson Song

The John Thomson Memorial fund-raising page can be found here:
http://www.justgiving.com/johnthomsonmemorialcommittee