The Celtic family is today mourning the passing of Dr. Jozef Venglos.
Venglos passed away last night, at the age of 84. His was a rich life well-lived, having played and managed at the highest level. Dr. Jo spent just one year at Celtic but left an incredible mark, signing Lubo Moravcik, Johan Mjällby and Mark Viduka during his spell as manager.
His attack-minded coaching led to scintillating displays, with Celtic unlucky to finish runners-up to a remarkably star-studded Rangers side. He also led the Bhoys to the Scottish Cup Final, again finishing runner-up.
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A pioneer in many respects, Venglos was the first non-British or Irish coach to manage in the English First Division. A spell at Aston Villa in 1990 helped the Villains to retain their top-flight status. He also managed national teams, including Czechoslovakia, with whom he finished 3rd in the 1980 European Championships.
On the 67 Hail Hail YouTube channel, Jackie McNamara said “Dr. Jo was a lovely man” when discussing his former managers. McNamara’s former team-mates Simon Donnelly and Craig Burley tweeted tributes to the legendary coach.
Sad news, really nice man , and he brought us Lubo . 🍀💕🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/GxTw9sudNE
— Simon Donnelly (@SimonDonnelly13) January 26, 2021
A lovely man. RIP Dr Jo. https://t.co/SgyqeqxAjN
— Craig Burley (@craigburley) January 26, 2021
Dr. Jo: a gentleman / (Clive Brunskill /Allsport)
Celtic fans remember Dr. Jozef Venglos
Since news broke of his passing last night, Celtic fans have been remembering Dr. Jozef Venglos. For many, signing Lubo and beating Rangers 5-1 were highlights of the 90s, along with Wim Jansen breaking Rangers’ title dominance in 1998.
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Join the forum now >>More than his signings and results, however, Dr Jo left a mark with his personality. An unassuming gentleman who always made time for fans, he’s remembered most kindly for the person he was.
Fans offered tributes to the former Celtic manager on social media.
A dignified and intelligent man. He knew a player – bringing in Lubo, Mjallby and Viduka.
— Christopher Gillespie (@GillespieC89) January 27, 2021
Dr jo was in charge for my 1st derby game the lubo 5-1 different era beating them like that then
— Sack the board (@NcoastTim) January 27, 2021
Genuinely sad to hear this, he was a lovely, gracious man. Rip Dr Jo
— Canne McKenzie (@cannemckenzie) January 26, 2021
The man knew a footballer when he saw one. Rest in peace Dr Jo.
— Dáithí (@DavidJo70904530) January 26, 2021
Very sad to hear of Dr Jo’s passing. Great guy who created a great mood at the club. R.I.P. Josef Venglos.🖤
— Rab McKnight (@rabadubdub2) January 26, 2021
Forever grateful 💚 pic.twitter.com/6uaSmXY0YC
— Martin Griffin ✊ (@mgriffin8622) January 26, 2021
Thank you for bringing Moravcik and the 5 1 game. An excellent coach and glad to have had the opportunity to watch one of your teams. RIP
— Ezio (@4La_Volpe) January 26, 2021
RIP Dr Jo, my first Celtic V Rangers game was the 5 -1 game and will never be forgotten. Brought Lubo, Mjalby, Viduka and put Henke up front instead of playing him in the deeper role employed by Jansen.
Left an indelible mark on the club.
— Pedro (@PeterSherry9) January 26, 2021
Extremely sad news. RIP Dr. Jo. Did so much for our club.
— Rory F 🏴🍀🇪🇺 (@rorybeanz) January 26, 2021
Rest easy Dr Jo YNWA 💚
— Matthew Doherty (@Matthew210387) January 26, 2021