Danny McGrain

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Born in Glasgow's Drumchapel area, McGrain was scouted by Celtic at age 17. He became part of the 'Quality Street Gang', a reserve group that included Kenny Dalglish and Lou Macari. Initially viewed as a midfielder, he settled into the right-back position after a spell at Maryhill Junior club to gain adult experience. His career faced a major setback on 25 March 1972 when he suffered a fractured skull against Falkirk; however, he recovered fully by the following season to become Celtic's first-choice right back.

In Their Own Story

McGrain made his first-team debut as a substitute against Dundee United on 26 August 1970. After making only 10 league appearances initially, he became a regular from the 1972–73 season onward. He captained Celtic starting in the 1977–78 season after Kenny Dalglish left for Liverpool. Although a troublesome foot injury caused him to miss most of that season and the 1978 World Cup, he returned to play the final 18 league fixtures of 1979. In the summer of 1986, Airdrie approached him to become their player-manager, but negotiations fell through. He played his final game for Celtic on 9 May 1987 against Hearts before joining Hamilton Accies.

Reader's Guide

McGrain's international career began with Scotland Under 23 in February 1973. He made his full debut in May 1973 against Wales. While primarily a right-back, he played at left-back for many appearances to accommodate Rangers player Sandy Jardine. Diagnosed with diabetes immediately after the 1974 World Cup—where he lost 2 stone (12 kg) due to extreme thirst—he managed his condition and continued playing. He captained Scotland in the 1982 World Cup, making three appearances before retiring from international duty. In total, he earned 62 caps.

Did You Know?

• McGrain was diagnosed with diabetes immediately after the 1974 World Cup, where he had lost 2 stone (12 kg) due to extreme thirst.
• He often played at left-back for Scotland to accommodate fellow international Sandy Jardine of Rangers, despite being a natural right-back.
• After retiring from playing, McGrain managed Arbroath in the early 1990s, where fans formed 'Danny McGrain's Bearded Army' wearing tribute beards and T-shirts.
• He made his first-team debut as a substitute in a Scottish League Cup tie against Dundee United on 26 August 1970.
• McGrain helped Hamilton Academical win promotion to the Premier Division in the final season of his career before retiring.