One of Celtic’s greatest ever players, today would have been Jimmy ‘Jinky’ Johnstone’s 81st birthday.
Born on September 30, 1944, in Viewpark, his Celtic legacy was cemented with a bronze statue of the former Scotland international in 2008, which still proudly outside the Parkhead main entrance in honour of the great man.
A key figure in the Lisbon Lions team of 1967, the winger also won nine league titles, four Scottish Cups, and five Scottish League Cups during his time with Celtic, before he left for San Jose Earthquakes in 1975. Capped 23 times by the Scotland national team, he also represented Sheffield United, Dundee, Shelbourne, and Elgin City during a supremely successful 17-year career.
Sadly passing away on March 13, 2006, after a five-year battle with motor neuron disease (MND), Johnstone is sadly missed by the footballing world, and continues to be heralded as one of Celtic’s most cherished players of all time.
Here are 13 of the best quotes about the man himself from footballing great, such as Pele, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Martin O’Neill.
!["I think Celtic had two world-class players who would have graced any team at any time. One was Bobby [Murdoch], the other was Jimmy Johnstone."](https://www.thestar.co.uk/jpim-static/image/2025/09/30/11/52/837452-1.jpg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
9. Legendary Scottish manager Sir Alex Ferguson on Johnstone...
"I think Celtic had two world-class players who would have graced any team at any time. One was Bobby [Murdoch], the other was Jimmy Johnstone." | SNS Group 0141 221 3602
10. Ex-Celtic manager Martin O'Neill on Johnstone...
"I met Jimmy along with the rest of the Lisbon Lions team when I first came to Glasgow almost six years ago. As we gathered round the table, it was obvious to me the respect and regard in which he was held by his team-mates. He was wonderful company that evening, with a subtle mixture of charm and humility, sometimes teasing everyone in sight, yet at other times deflecting the conversation away from himself and his legendary exploits, and making you feel as if you were his best friend. However, you still felt in complete awe of this footballing genius." | SNS Group 0141 221 3602
11. Former Celtic manager and player Neil Lennon on Johnstone...
"He was an entertainer, so exciting. He used to come into the dressing room and he never had a bad word to say about anyone.” | SNS Group 0141 221 3602
12. Rangers legend Sandy Jardine on Johnstone...
"There is a huge rivalry between both clubs but everybody appreciates quality players. Celtic fans mourned Jim Baxter and I have no doubt there will be a lot of Rangers fans mourning Jimmy Johnstone." | SNS Group 0141 221 3602