The Green Brigade are preparing to pay tribute to Celtic legend Danny McGrain following his Alzheimer's diagnosis. The 74-year-old former Scotland international was regarded as one of the greatest full-backs of his generation and was once hailed as the best right-back in the world.
McGrain made 663 competitive appearances for Celtic between 1970 and 1987, winning seven league titles, five Scottish Cups and two League Cups. The Hoops icon has remained a familiar and much-loved figure at Celtic Park through coaching roles since the 90s.
Tifo Planned for Motherwell Clash
McGrain's wife Laraine confirmed in a club statement last month that her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's some time ago. Celtic ultras have since been in touch with the family and will unfurl a tifo in his honour at today's Premiership clash against Motherwell at Fir Park, having made a donation to an Alzheimer's charity in his name.
A spokesperson for the leading fans group said: "The Green Brigade has prepared a tribute to Danny McGrain, 'the best fullback in the world,' as a gesture from the Celtic support to Danny and his family.
"Danny was sadly diagnosed with Alzheimer's recently and we hope that this tifo goes a small way to lift his and his family's spirits at this time.
"After consulting with the family, the Green Brigade will also make a donation to an Alzheimer's charity in Danny's name.
"We kindly ask all supporters to make the effort to be inside the stadium early, to raise the material at your seat and join us at the start of the match chanting Danny McGrain's name."
Family's Statement
McGrain is continuing to manage the diagnosis privately with his family, remains in good spirits, and is enjoying time with loved ones, following football and staying close to the club he has represented for more than five decades.
Laraine said: "Danny received this diagnosis some time ago, and as time has moved on, we felt it was right to be open and clear. Danny has always loved helping supporters - whether through hospital visits, assisting fans with charity events, or sending messages of support.
"As time has gone on, that has become more difficult for Danny, so we wanted to explain his situation with honesty, and with the care and respect the Celtic Family has always shown us."
Career Highlights and Recovery
McGrain came through the Celtic ranks in the post-Lisbon Lions era but trained alongside members of the legendary 1967 European Cup-winning side.
His career was almost cut short in only his 10th first-team appearance when he suffered a skull fracture following a clash of heads with Falkirk's Doug Somner at Brockville in May 1972. While he physically recovered, McGrain said manager Jock Stein gave him the confidence to return to heading the ball. The defender spent days undertaking extra heading practice to convince himself he was ready to play again.
He went on to become a Celtic mainstay and one of the most decorated players in the club's history.
Celtic FC said in a statement: "In recent weeks, Laraine and their daughters, Vicki, Dawn and Carly, decided that, through the club, they wanted to be open with supporters so that Danny can continue to receive the love and support of the Celtic Family, just as he has given so freely and humbly to others throughout his life.
"The club has been in close contact with Danny's family throughout this time."
