Pat Bonner

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Bonner signed for Celtic on 14 May 1978 after Sean Fallon spotted him while he was set to join Finn Harps; his original manager tore up the contract so Bonner could move. Released by Lou Macari in 1994, he was re-signed by Tommy Burns and won the 1995 Scottish Cup final before leaving in 1998 to become a coach.

In Their Own Story

Bonner's Celtic journey began after impressing on trial following a guest appearance against Stoke City. True to his word, Finn Harps manager Eunan 'Busty' Blake tore up Bonner's contract without him making a competitive appearance for the club. At Celtic, he secured four League Championships, three Scottish Cups, and a League Cup before returning from a brief release in 1994 to win the 1995 Scottish Cup under Tommy Burns.

Reader's Guide

Bonner played his entire senior career at Celtic from May 1978 until 1998 (with a brief departure in 1994). He made 646 total appearances, winning four League Championships, three Scottish Cups, and one League Cup. He also played Gaelic football for Donegal at minor and senior levels.

Did You Know?

• Bonner made his Republic of Ireland international debut on his 21st birthday against Poland on 24 May 1981.
• He earned 75 caps by his 34th birthday, equalling the Irish record held by Liam Brady at that time.
• Before joining Celtic, he kept goal for Leicester City in the FA Youth Cup during trials.
• Bonner played Gaelic football for the Donegal county team at both minor and senior levels in the 1970s.