 |
Tommy BurnsScottish footballer and coach.
Date of Birth: 16.12.1956
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Tommy Burns: Legendary Scottish Footballer and Coach
- Coaching Career
- Assistant Manager and International Role
- Return to Celtic
- Illness and Legacy
Tommy Burns: Legendary Scottish Footballer and Coach
Early Life and Playing CareerTommy Burns was born in Glasgow, Scotland on December 16, 1956. He began his footballing journey as a goalkeeper with Benburb before being converted to a midfielder by his coach at Maryhill. In 1973, Burns joined Celtic, where he spent the next 14 years as a pivotal figure in their midfield. He made his debut for the first team on April 19, 1975, and went on to play 357 league games for the Bhoys, scoring 52 goals.
Coaching Career
After leaving Celtic in 1989, Burns joined Kilmarnock as a player-manager. Under his guidance, the club secured promotion to the Premier League in 1992. In 1994, Burns returned to Celtic as manager, guiding them to Scottish Cup glory in his first season. Despite his success, he was unable to break Rangers' dominance in the league, and was dismissed in 1997.
Assistant Manager and International Role
Following his departure from Celtic, Burns became assistant manager to Kenny Dalglish at Newcastle United. In 1998, he was appointed manager of Reading, but was unable to prevent their relegation to the Second Division. Burns then returned to the international scene as assistant manager to Berti Vogts and Walter Smith with the Scotland national team.
Return to Celtic
In 2000, Burns re-joined Celtic as youth team coach. He was promoted to youth academy director under Gordon Strachan and continued to serve as assistant manager for the senior team. Burns left his role with the Scotland national team in 2007 to focus solely on his duties at Celtic.
Illness and Legacy
In 2006, Burns was diagnosed with skin cancer. Despite initial reports of successful treatment, the disease progressed rapidly. He passed away at his home in Glasgow on May 15, 2008. Burns' funeral was held at St. Mary's Cathedral in Glasgow, and he was laid to rest at Linn Cemetery.
Tommy Burns was a true Celtic legend, both as a player and a manager. He will forever be remembered for his passion, dedication, and unwavering loyalty to his beloved club.
