When you think of Scottish footballers or Scottish footballing tradition, what comes to mind? What runs through the ages of football is their unwavering passion and grit. They have been top competitors and skilful players, even when facing the toughest challenges.
The pride and camaraderie they have for each other when playing on the pitch is second to none, which brings us to the question: who are the greatest Scottish footballers of all time? Does their legendary status still hold true, or has new talent emerged to challenge their legacy?
Here's A Ranking of The Best Scottish Footballers of All-Time
8.) Billy McNeill
Celtic’s legendary captain, McNeill, led his side to European glory in 1967 as part of the "Lisbon Lions." A towering presence and a natural leader, McNeill’s defensive mastery and ability to command his teammates made him one of the most respected figures in British football. His loyalty to Celtic, spending his entire playing career (between 1957 and 1975) at the club, adds to his legendary status.
7.) Billy Bremner
Leeds United’s iconic captain, Bremner was a midfield dynamo renowned for his fighting spirit and sharp passing. He led Leeds to two First Division titles in 1969 and 1974 and a European Cup final in 1975. Though small in stature, Bremner’s ferocity, combined with his football intelligence, made him one of the most feared and admired midfielders of his era.
6.) Graeme Souness
Souness was the embodiment of toughness and class in midfield. Dominating for Liverpool during their golden era, he combined his rugged defensive abilities with refined passing and leadership. Known for his fierce tackling and uncompromising nature, Souness was also a skilled playmaker, captaining Liverpool to three European Cup triumphs.
5.) Jim Baxter
Baxter was a midfield maestro whose vision, skill, and intelligence made him a standout in the 1960s. His ability to control the tempo of a game, along with his impeccable passing, merited him legendary status, particularly for his performance against England in 1967. Baxter’s composure and footballing brain set him apart as one of Scotland’s most technically gifted players.
4.) Jimmy Johnstone
The dazzling winger known as "Jinky" was a key part of Celtic’s dominant team in the 1960s and early 1970s. His flair, pace, and dribbling ability mesmerised defenders and earned him widespread acclaim. Johnstone’s knack for producing magical moments, particularly in big games, cemented his place as one of the greatest wingers in Scottish football history.
3.) Alan Hansen
Hansen revolutionised the centre-back role, combining elegance with defensive steel. His calm demeanour, intelligence, and superb ball-playing abilities made him stand out during his time at Liverpool, where he helped the team to multiple domestic and European titles. A true visionary at the back, Hansen’s composure under pressure was unrivalled.
2.) Kenny Dalglish
Dalglish was a footballing genius. His vision, intelligence, and technical brilliance made him a standout for Celtic and Liverpool, where he won multiple league titles and European Cups. Known as "King Kenny," Dalglish’s impact went beyond goals; his leadership, creativity, and footballing instincts make him a true legend, on and off the pitch. He later went into football management, leading Blackburn to a Premier League title during the mid-90s.
1.) Denis Law
Undoubtedly the greatest Scottish footballer of all time and a clinical goal-scorer, Law was a force to be reckoned with on the pitch. During his time at Manchester United, he formed part of the legendary "Holy Trinity" alongside George Best and Bobby Charlton, netting an impressive 227 goals for the club.
His sharp instincts and ability to score with finesse and power granted him the prestigious Ballon d’Or in 1964. Law remains Scotland’s joint-top scorer with 30 international goals, solidifying his status as a true legend in football history.
Follow Think Football Ideas across our social channels, on Facebook, X [Twitter] and Instagram.
Comments