Jock Stein

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Born on 5 October 1922 in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, Stein worked as a coal-miner while playing part-time for Blantyre Victoria and Albion Rovers. He turned full-time professional with Llanelli Town before returning to Scotland with Celtic in 1951. Ankle injuries forced his retirement from playing in January 1957. He began coaching the reserves in July 1957, managing Dunfermline from 1960 (winning the Scottish Cup in 1961) and Hibernian briefly before returning to Celtic as manager in March 1965.

In Their Own Story

Stein managed Celtic for thirteen years, winning the European Cup, ten Scottish league championships, eight Scottish Cups, and six Scottish League Cups. After a brief stint with Leeds United, he managed Scotland from 1978 until his death on 10 September 1985, which occurred just before the end of a World Cup qualifying match.

Reader's Guide

Stein's tenure at Celtic began in March 1965. His success included the historic European Cup win in 1967 and domestic doubles.

Did You Know?

• Stein worked as a coal-miner during the week while playing for Albion Rovers because mining was a reserved occupation during World War II.
• He earned £12 per week as a full-time professional footballer at Llanelli Town, his first such role in his career.
• Stein retired from playing after an ankle injury became septic while on holiday in Blackpool, officially ending his career on 29 January 1957.
• He guided Dunfermline to their first Scottish Cup victory in 1961 with a 2–0 replayed final win against Celtic.
• Stein died on 10 September 1985, just before the conclusion of a World Cup qualifying match while managing Scotland.