[Player Pics]

The magnificent James ‘Jimmy’ Hay is among the finest players to ever pull on the Hoops.

The Beith-born left half combined immense strength with subtle skill as a stalwart of Willie Maley’s legendary side which won six league championships in a row between 1905 and 1910.

Hay signed for the Bhoys for a fee of £50 from English side Glossop in March 1903 and he made his senior competitive debut in a 2-1 home league victory over Partick Thistle on August.15th that year.

His play was characterised by a vigorous energy and his driving runs and rapid passes would quickly convert defence into attack. Strong in the tackle and comfortable on the ball Hay was among the most accomplished and respected players of his generation.

His playing abilities were combined with obvious leadership qualities which saw him skipper Celtic between 1906 and 1911. In 1910 he was also made captain of Scotland and led the team out at Goddison in 1911 for the clash with England.

He would leave Celtic Park in July that same year after a benefit game when Celtic refused to meet his demands for an improved contract. His departure to Newcastle United came after 255 appearances and 17 goals.

It was a rather sad end to his Parkhead career but in his 8 years in Paradise Jimmy Hay showed time and time again that he was a great player, a great leader and a great Celt.