Breaking: Celtic legend Dixie Deans has died at 79

Celtic Pay Tribute to Legendary Goal Scorer Dixie Deans Following His Passing at 79

Celtic Football Club has paid heartfelt tribute to club legend Dixie Deans, who has passed away at the age of 79. Chairman Peter Lawwell led the tributes, describing Deans as “one of the finest goalscorers ever to have played for the club.”

Born John Kelly Deans in Johnstone on July 30, 1946, Dixie first rose to prominence at Motherwell during the 1960s. Signed by Bobby Howitt in 1965, he quickly became a prolific scorer. His 30-goal haul in the 1966/67 season remains a post-war record for the Steelmen. Even after relegation, Deans’ firepower proved decisive as he scored 32 goals in the 1968/69 campaign to fire Motherwell back into the top flight.

Across 198 appearances for Motherwell, he netted 89 goals, attracting the attention of the legendary Jock Stein, who brought him to Celtic in October 1971.

A Celtic Icon

Deans made an immediate impact in a team that still featured many of the Lisbon Lions, instantly becoming a fan favourite. His scoring exploits entered Celtic folklore:

• Hat-trick in the 1972 Scottish Cup final, a 6–1 win over Hibs

• Hat-trick in the 1974 League Cup final, a 6–3 victory, again over Hibs

• Six goals in a single match during a 7–0 win over Partick Thistle in 1973 — still a post-war record

By the time he left Celtic in 1976, he had scored a remarkable 124 goals in 184 appearances, securing his place among the greatest forwards ever to wear the Hoops.

After leaving Celtic, Deans enjoyed spells with Luton Town, Adelaide United, Carlisle United, and Partick Thistlebefore retiring in 1980. In recent years, he was a cherished presence in Celtic Park’s matchday hospitality, warmly engaging with supporters and former players.

Tributes From Across the Football Community

Reflecting on his memories, Peter Lawwell said:

“Dixie was a great Celt and one of the finest goal scorers ever to have played for the club. His unforgettable hat-tricks in the Hampden cup finals against Hibs will always remain special moments.

I was fortunate to watch him throughout his career and even more fortunate to get to know him personally. His love for Celtic was genuine, and the supporters adored him for both his talent and his passion for the club.”

Motherwell FC also issued a statement, saying:

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player John ‘Dixie’ Deans. The thoughts and condolences of everyone at Motherwell FC are with his family and close friends at this very sad time.”

A True Celtic Great

Dixie Deans will forever be remembered as one of Scottish football’s most lethal finishers, a cherished personality, and a loyal Celt whose bond with supporters never faded. His contributions to Celtic and Motherwell remain part of the fabric of both clubs’ histories.