In the first episode of our new Celtic Relived series we were joined by Billy Stark – a hugely popular member of Celtic’s Double winning Centenary Team.
Billy McNeill had returned to the club as manager ahead of the 1987/88 season and made Billy Stark our first signing as the club attempted to wrestle back the title from Rangers having finished trophyless the season before.
Billy played a vital part in the club’s success in that special season, ultimately finishing 3rd top scorer behind Andy Walker and Frank McAvennie, and for those who recall was instrumental in our comeback win over Dundee United in that memorable Scottish Cup Final.
As a player that Alex Ferguson signed twice (for St Mirren & Aberdeen) Billy was in the twilight of his career at 30 years of age when he eventually put pen to paper for Celtic, and his signing perhaps flew under the radar at that time.
He would soon justify his presence in that talented however, with a debut goal against Greenock Morton closely followed by an Old Firm winner in a 1-0 win helping him settle in the eyes of the fans.
In addition to the career path that took him to Celtic, as well as the story of that Centenary Season, Billy also spoke fondly of his relationship with Celtic hero Tommy Burns and on the bond that was formed even before they both shared a dressing room together at Celtic Park.
We were also joined on this episode by Paul Cuddihy, current editor of The Celtic View (since 2001) and lifelong fan of the club, who shared his own recollections of that special season, culminating in that day at Hampden in May 1998.
Enjoy this very special episode of Celtic Relived and please let us know any feedback on twitter (@CeltExchange) or directly to our host Tino at tino@thecelticexchange.com
In addition please share this episode far and wide with anyone in your Celtic network who you think will enjoy this nostalgic trip back to the Centenary Year!
