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Athletic Club’s classy statement on the sad passing of Celtic legend John Clark

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The tributes for Celtic legend John Clark continue to pour in.

After the sad passing of the Lisbon Lion, Brendan Rodgers led the tributes as Celtic released a statement about John Clark’s death.

The legendary Celtic defender had a glittering Parkhead career that consisted of winning not only the European Cup but also six league titles, five League Cups and three Scottish Cups.

Clark scored three goals in over 300 appearances for Celtic and he was fearless in the heart of the Hoops defence that conquered Europe in the Estadio Nacional in 1967.

And now, La Liga side Athletic Club have paid their own tribute towards the legendary Lisbon Lion this morning.

John Clark in action for Celtic
Photo by Don Morley/Allsport /Getty Images

Athletic Club ‘deeply saddened’ at Celtic hero John Clark’s passing

Celtic and Athletic Club have long held a special bond. The La Liga club have long admired the achievements of the Parkhead club and, in particular, the Lisbon Lions.

And after hearing the sad news about John Clark, Athletic paid tribute to the Celtic hero on social media.

Taking to X, the La Liga club said, “We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of John Clark.

“In 2019, John came to San Mames to pick up the One-Club Man award on behalf of his late friend and teammate Billy McNeill, along with Billy’s daughter Susan.

“Our thoughts are with John’s family and loved ones, and the entire Celtic family at this time.

“Gugan bego, Lion.”

The tributes for John Clark pour in from Celtic legends

The tributes flooded social media yesterday as legends from Celtic’s past paid tribute to John Clark.

Chris Sutton posted on X, “Really upsetting to hear of John Clark’s passing. A true Celtic great. A legend on the field and an absolute gentleman off it. Thoughts and prayers go out to John’s family.”

Martin O’Neill said, “Really saddened to hear about the death of John Clark. He was a fantastic player, a great person and a trusted friend during my time as Celtic manager. He will be greatly missed and my thoughts are with his family and friends.”

John Hartson called Clark ‘immense’ on X and said, “Very sad news to hear my old kit man and Celtic great John Clark has passed away. His partnership with Billy McNeill was immense.”

And Frank McAvennie said Clark will be missed at Celtic and said, “Sad to hear that another one of the Celtic greats and Lisbon Lion John Clark has passed today, what a player and like the rest of the Lions had an aura and grace about him that will be missed around Celtic Park. RIP LEGEND.”