Granger, John

Biog

Signed from Vale of Leven in October 1921, John Granger was used primarily as cover during his Celtic career.

Capable of slotting in at full-back and half-back, the Dumbarton-born player made his competitive Hoops debut in a 0-0 league draw at Falkirk on 17th February 1923.

He was first choice at the start of 1923/24 at full and half back, but lasted only three games, and again was in & out the side. He lost his place to the great Jimmy McStay and deputised twice for John McFarlane, but it was not going to be an easy task to dislodge either of these two great players.

John Granger would make 13 league appearances for the Bhoys before being released in the summer of 1925 when he rejoined Vale of Leven.

In reflection he had a fair record in the first team as a defender, with Celtic only conceding 7 goals in the matches he played. However, there were still many points dropped and Celtic were finishing way behind Rangers who dominated the league at the time. For whatever reason, Celtic were dropping points in draws especially away from home, but sympathisers for John Granger could argue that at least in his part of the field, the defence was doing its job.

He was to be unfortunate as Celtic won the league in 1921/22 and then in 1925/26, but his time was sandwiched in between, so he just missed out on being part of a league title winning side. He also didn’t play in the Scottish Cup winning run in season 1922/23. So, he was to sadly leave Celtic empty-handed in terms of major silverware.

He later moved to Australia playing for Melbourne Caledonian in 1927 but returned to Scotland and played for Ards.

Not forgotten by Celtic, he turned out for Patsy Gallagher’s Charity XI at Holm Park (Yoker) on 23 June 1938.

Playing Career

Honours with Celtic

none

Pictures

• Player Pictures