'Devasted' fans react at Celtic Park following tragic death of Lisbon Lion

Yahoo

4 hours ago

Fans have been left devastated following the tragic death of Lisbon Lion John Clark.
The former Celtic defender, who was part of the iconic team that secured the European Cup in 1967, has passed away at the age of 84.
Clark made over 300 appearances for Celtic between 1959 and 1971, before moving on to play for Morton.
He returned to the Glasgow club in 1973, taking on a number of roles over the decades—including coach, assistant manager, and, most recently, kit man.
(Image: Newsquest)
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This morning, the Glasgow Times reported that a statement from Celtic read: 'Everyone at Celtic Football Club is deeply saddened at the news that legendary Lisbon Lion, John Clark has passed away at the age of 84.'
The club added: 'His love for the club was a constant throughout his life and, after leaving his role with the first team, he was able to enjoy matches from the stands at Celtic Park. He will be greatly missed by everyone at the club.'
Everyone at #CelticFC is deeply saddened at the news that legendary Lisbon Lion, John Clark has passed away at the age of 84. The whole Celtic family will mourn John's loss together, supporters and colleagues alike. Rest in Peace John, You'll Never Walk Alone 🦁
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) June 23, 2025
Fans have been gathering at Celtic Park, leaving scarves and flowers in tribute to the legendary defender.
Andrew Grieve, 37, was at Celtic Park with his brother to take photos with the team's trophies.
He said: "It's very sad that another legend has gone. It's actually devastating, as there aren't many Lions left.
"He was just one of those guys you thought would live forever."
Rez Lowther, from Bristol, was in the city for work when the news broke. He said that despite living down south, he has family in "this neck of the woods."
He shared that he was sad to hear of his passing, despite not being able to remember him playing.
Kiaran Whiteside, 14, was at the stadium with his mum, who shared a personal connection: "He was my grandad's cousin.
"We never met, but we know everything about what he did for the club. It's really devastating that he's gone."
Kiaran Whiteside (Image: Newsquest)
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The Glasgow Times has reported that tributes have been pouring in for the late Celtic defender, with hundreds of people taking to social media to share their condolences.
Clyde FC shared on X: "All at the club are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former manager John Clark.
"John took the reins in 1986 and managed Clyde for 273 games until 1992, spending five years in the First Division.
"Our thoughts and condolences are with John's family and friends."
All at the club are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former manager John Clark. John took the reins in 1986 and managed Clyde for 273 games until 1992, spending five years in the First Division. Our thoughts and condolences are with John's family and friends. pic.twitter.com/ueyeshRb13
— Clyde FC (@ClydeFC) June 23, 2025
Coatbridge St James, a Celtic supporters' club, added: "RIP John Clark, thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.
"A true Celt who dedicated his life to the club, a true legend. Another Lion gone."
The Parkhead Faithful, another supporters' club, commented: "Rest in peace. Your light will forever shine in our hearts, and your memory will be cherished always.
"May you find eternal peace."
Former Celtic player John Hartson said: "Very sad news to hear my old kit man and Celtic great John Clark has passed away.
"His partnership with Billy McNeill was immense."
Very sad news to hear my old kit man and Celtic great John Clark has passed away.. his partnership with Billy McNeill was immense.. #lisbonlion #great #gentleman 🙏🙏🏆🍀 pic.twitter.com/8vL24cSQs3
— John Hartson (@JohnHartson10) June 23, 2025
Celtic Bobby Murdoch, Bertie Auld and John Clark show the European Cup to the thousands of Celtic fans at Celtic Park, a day after their victory in the final, as teammate Dave Cattenach makes his way onto the podium (Image: Newsquest) Hoops fans also took to social media to share their condolences.
One person said: "Awful news. Such a humble and understated character, yet also one of the greatest players in our history. RIP John Clark"
Another added: "Sad news that Lisbon Lion John Clark has died.
"A class player who served Celtic FC with distinction in various roles and was one of the nicest men in football you could meet.
"Thoughts with his family and friends."
A third shared: "Thank you for what you gave our great club and for being part of that immortal and legendary side that wore those famous green and white Hoops.
"You'll Never Walk Alone."