Two of Celtic’s biggest heroes of the last decade have taken to social media to pay tribute to Bertie Auld, who sadly passed away on Sunday.
Tributes have been flooding in from supporters and indeed across football over the last 24 hours, as Auld’s life is celebrated.
His achievements are grand, including being part of the famous Lisbon Lions European Cup winners, but it’s his warm impact on many as a person that is shining through in the tributes.
Auld never wavered in his support of Celtic over the decades, becoming the go-to personality for stories and jokes about the golden era of the club.
He brought history alive to generations of supporters, players and coaches, often spending time walking the hallways of Celtic Park on matchdays.
Former club captain Scott Brown knows that more than most and his emotional tribute on Instagram today summed up his feelings.
The Aberdeen midfielder stated: “I am devastated to hear of the passing of the legend, Lion and dear friend, Bertie Auld. He was the happiest man in the world and always had time to share his amazing stories with supporters, players and staff.
“Bertie lit up a room when he walked in and filled it with lots of laughter (and singing.) He truly was Mr. Celtic. My thoughts and prayers go out to Bertie’s family and friends.”
Yet it’s not only Scottish players who have grown up steeped in the history of Celtic that feel his passing strongly.
Players such as Moussa Dembele, who only spent a couple of years at the club, also loved Bertie. The Frenchman was keen to pay his respects after Sunday’s news too, writing on Twitter: ” Sad to hear the passing of Bertie… He was such a nice person and so positive. An absolute legend and a gentleman. Thank you for the joy you gave to people! You’ll be missed but never forgotten!”
Current manager Ange Postecoglou has also shared a tribute today, telling the official club website: “I know Bertie was one of the true Celtic greats, leaving his mark indelibly on the Club and our supporters by reaching the very summit of footballing achievement, but also through his unique personality.
“Big, special football clubs are built on major figures like Bertie and we should all forever be grateful to him for all he achieved and all he was. I know his spirit will flow through Celtic forever.”
In other news, Celtic star raves about Ange Postecoglou’s impact.
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