Pat Crerand
The tough-tackling right half who won the European Cup with Manchester United.
Patrick Timothy Crerand played as a right half for Celtic for six years before moving to Manchester United on 6 February 1963. He is considered one of the best midfielders of his generation, known for an extraordinary sense of sight and a prolific partnership with George Best.
- Role
- Central Midfielder
- Affiliation
- Celtic FC (1962–1973)
- Major Honours
- European Cup, 7 League Titles, 5 Scottish Cups, 5 League Cups
- Status
- Club Legend / Retired
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
After six years at Celtic making 120 appearances, Crerand joined Manchester United on the fifth anniversary of the Munich air disaster. He helped United win the league in 1965 and 1967, plus the FA Cup and the European Cup in 1968. His tenacity was legendary; George Best recalled looking for him during rough matches because he was a 'case-hardened tough Scottish nut' when it came to a fight.
In Their Own Story
Crerand signed for Celtic after playing junior football for Duntocher Hibernian. He made his United debut against Blackpool and became known for accurate passing that created chances for Bobby Charlton and George Best, even if pace was not one of his attributes. In May 1967, an incident during a match against Stoke City led to the International Board changing the Laws of the Game regarding spitting. He retired from playing in 1971 with 401 career appearances.
Reader's Guide
Crerand's time at Celtic lasted six years before his move to Manchester United in February 1963. He played as a right half, making 120 appearances and scoring five goals for the Scottish club. Following his playing career, he managed Northampton Town for one season (1976–77) and later worked in media, commentating on MUTV until his phone-in show ended in 2019.
Did You Know?
- Crerand was born in Glasgow's Gorbals area on 19 February 1939 to Irish immigrants.
- His father, Michael Crerand, died when Patrick was two years old during a German air raid on Clydebank.
- On 13 May 1967, Crerand spat over a referee's shoulder; this unseen act led the International Board to change the laws of football regarding spitting.
- He spent exactly six years at Celtic before signing for Manchester United on 6 February 1963.
- Crerand managed Northampton Town for just one season during 1976–77.
Roots and Family Life
Born to Irish immigrants in the Gorbals area of Glasgow on 19 February 1939, Crerand's father Michael was killed in a German air raid on Clydebank when Patrick was two. He married Noreen Ferry in 1963; they have three children (Patrick, Lorraine, and Danny) and eight grandchildren. His cousin Charlie Gallagher also became a Celtic footballer. In 2007, he released the autobiography Never Turn the Other Cheek, detailing his involvement in Irish politics during the Troubles.
Manchester United Playing Days
Crerand moved to Manchester United on 6 February 1963 and won two English League titles (1965, 1967), the FA Cup (1963), the FA Charity Shield twice (1965, 1967), and the European Cup (1968). He gained 16 international caps for Scotland. A hard-tackling right half, he was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in November 2011.
The Law-Changing Incident
On 13 May 1967, during a match against Stoke City at Old Trafford, TV cameras captured Crerand spitting over referee Pat Partridge's shoulder at opponent Tony Allen. Although the referee was unaware and only cautioned players for their altercation, the Football League investigated. The International Board subsequently changed the Laws of the Game to treat spitting as violent conduct and a dismissible offence.
Broadcasting Career and Public Perception
After managing Northampton Town in 1976–77, Crerand forged a media career starting on radio and later co-commentating for MUTV. He hosted The Paddy Crerand Show until it ended in 2019 after 252 episodes. In February 2009, he visited Malta to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Malta Manchester United Supporters' Club.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Pat Crerand?
Pat Crerand was a central midfielder who joined Celtic from Manchester United in 1962, playing until 1973 as the tactical anchor during the team's ascent to European glory. He effectively linked the club's earlier developmental years with the historic success achieved under manager Jock Stein.
What defined Pat Crerand's playing style?
Crerand operated as the vital core of the midfield, distinguished by exceptional stamina that allowed him to cover vast ground without tiring. His strategic awareness enabled him to control the match tempo from deep positions while launching attacks and maintaining defensive solidity.
What major trophies did Pat Crerand win?
Crerand's cabinet includes the European Cup, seven League Titles, five Scottish Cups, and five League Cups earned during his tenure. These accolades underscore his essential role in securing the club's most decorated period in football history.
Why is Pat Crerand considered a Celtic legend?
He is revered for his steadfast dedication and for personifying the club's evolution from modest community roots to international acclaim. Crerand represents the resilience and identity that defined Celtic's rise to global prominence, earning him a permanent place in fan folklore.
When did Pat Crerand play for Celtic?
Crerand represented Celtic FC continuously from 1962 until his retirement in 1973, serving as a consistent starter throughout this eleven-year span. He is now recognized as a retired icon whose legacy remains integral to the club's heritage.
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