Celtic held a minute of applause just before kicking off their clash against Aberdeen at Parkhead.
Brendan Rodgers prepared his Celtic team to bounce back from Saturday’s defeat to Hibs by hoping to beat Jimmy Thelin’s side at Celtic Park tonight.
However, just prior to kick-off, Celtic held a minute of applause to pay tribute to a former European hero who helped the Hoops reach the European Cup final for the second time in the club’s history.
Celtic pay tribute to 1970 European Cup hero Evan Williams
Evan Williams was part of the Celtic squad that reached the 1970 European Cup final against Feyenoord and he sadly passed away last Thursday, aged 81.
Williams made over 148 appearances for Celtic during his career and won four league titles and two Scottish Cups. But reaching the pinnacle of European football in the 1970 final was the highlight of the former goalkeeper’s time at Parkhead.
Williams faced the late Wim Jansen in the final which Celtic lost 2-0 in which the Hoops ‘keeper was named the man of the match.
In a touching tribute, both the Celtic and Aberdeen players plus both sets of fans paid their respects to Williams prior to kick-off as the Hoops squad also wore black armbands.
What Celtic said about the sad passing of Evan Williams
Celtic released a statement about the sad passing of Evan Williams on the club’s official website as the club paid tribute to a former player who will be ‘sadly missed’ by all at Parkhead.
Celtic said, “Everyone at Celtic Football Club is saddened by the news that former goalkeeper Evan Williams has passed away at the age of 81.
“Dumbarton-born Evan signed for Celtic in 1969 and would go on to make 148 appearances before parting company with the club in 1974.
“He was a key player throughout a hugely successful time for the club, during which he won four league titles and two Scottish Cups. He was also in goals for the Hoops in the 1970 European Cup final against Feyenoord in Milan.
“In his later years and after his retirement from football, Evan was a regular at Celtic Park on matchdays and he will be greatly missed by everyone around the club.
The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Celtic Football Club are with Evan’s friends and family at this sad time.”
Thoughts and prayers of all at 67 Hail Hail are with Evan’s family and friends.
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