Billy McNeill's first club Blantyre Victoria say they are "still humbled to have been a small part of Billy’s legendary journey" as they remember the Celtic hero on what would have been his 80th birthday.
McNeill became the first Scot to lift the European Cup while wearing the Hoops but started his career in Blantyre before moving to the Glasgow giants as a teenager in 1957.
The Lisbon Lion passed away last April after battling dementia and would have turned 80 today (March 2).
The junior outfit paid tribute to the iconic former Scotland cap to mark the landmark.
'Cesar' was playing for Our Lady's High School in Motherwell when The Vics brought him to the club.
While the towering defender was playing for the Lanarkshire side, the Parkhead scouts came calling.
Vics' committee member Andy McDade fondly remembers watching McNeill play down the right flank rather than the centre-half role that would see his star rise.
He told Lanarkshire Live Sport: "In those days were were given younger players to toughen them up.
"Billy had the skill and had a bit of 'oomph' when it came to taking on players.
"He was a 17-year-old and we played him at right-back mainly during the spell he was with us - I think he only played at centre-back a couple of times.
"He was a very well-liked and talented player and is very fondly remembered by all at the club."
Vice-President Blake Welsh added: “Everyone at the club were deeply saddened last year to learn of the passing of one of the Vics’ most famous ex-players Billy McNeill.
"On this day, what would’ve been his 80th birthday, we reflect on what a wonderful career he had with over 800 appearances and 23 major honours.
“We are today still humbled to have been a small part of Billy’s legendary journey.
"Our thoughts today go out to his family."
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