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The legendary James Kelly is the man blessed with the honour of being the first ever captain of Celtic.

The fledging club’s capture of this renowned and accomplished centre-half from Renton was a massive coup for the Bhoys as Kelly was one of the best known and highly regarded players of his era.

The presence of Kelly in the Celtic ranks meant that other top players would only be too happy to sign up to play in Glasgow’s east end.

Prior to signing for Celtic Kelly had played in the Renton side which had recently won the Scottish Cup and had defeated the top English side West Bromwich Albion 4-1.

As skipper he scored in Celtic’s first ever game as they defeated a Rangers side 5-1. He was very much a no frills player who was content to ensure that the basics were done well. His efficient approach to the game made him a most effective, dependable and consistent talent.

Kelly was in the Celtic team which claimed the Scottish Cup for the first time in 1892 and the League Championship in 1893. He retired from playing and became a director in 1897. As a player he made 139 appearances for Celtic and scored 11 goals.

He was chairman of the club from 1909 until 1914 and his family would have virtual control of the club for most of the following century. Whatever mistakes his descendents were to make in their running of the club there is no disputing that James Kelly is a Celtic great.








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