McWilliam, Ian

Fullname: Ian McWilliam
Born: 19 Mar 1953
Died: May 2004
Birthplace: Malta
Signed: 2 Aug 1977 (from Queen’s Park)
Left: 22 Apr 1978 (free); 3 Aug 1978 (to Seiko (HK))
Position: Central Defender
Debut: Celtic 5-0 Jeunesse Esch, European Cup, 14 Sep 1977
Internationals: none

Biog

Former police cadet Ian McWilliam was a surprise signing for Celtic in August 1977 from city neighbours Queen’s Park as cover for the club’s established central defenders.

He was said to have had a great 1976-77 season with Queen’s Park and to be a “real personality” so seemed to be ready for the step up or giant leap to a major club. He was also the tallest player to date to play for the Celts, a massive 6′ 5″.

He went on to make his debut in a 5-0 European Cup victory at home to Luxembourg minnows Jeunesse Esch on September 14th 1977, but then played a week later in the 2-1 defeat to Aberdeen in the league. He was only awarded two further appearances for Celtic, both later on in the first half of the season, a 3-1 & 2-0 win both over St Mirren in the League Cup.

He was unable to displace more established players like Roddy MacDonald from the centre half position for the rest of that season, and he never seemed to convince many of his long-term prospects.

Always likely to be outside the first team picture, the giant Ian McWilliam was released by the club in April 1978 after four senior competitive appearances. It simply wasn’t to be for Ian. It was an unhappy season for Celtic, as it was Jock Stein’s last, and Celtic had floundered badly, and major changes were needed. It was a difficult environment at Celtic for any young footballer.

After Celtic he moved to play for Seiko in Hong Kong, but returned to the UK to win a trial for Blackpool in 1981 before running down his playing career with Rutherglen Glencairn.

Sadly, Ian McWilliam died prematurely in 2004 after a long battle against leukaemia. May he rest in peace.

Playing Career

Honours with Celtic

none

Pictures

• Player Pics