Bustling forward James Lafferty was signed by Celtic in November 1951 from Arthurlie.

He made his debut at outside-left in place of the suspended Charlie Tully in a 2-1 home league win over Partick Thistle on December 1st. He reverted to his usual role as centre forward the following week and he hit both Celtic goals in a 2-1 win over St Mirren at Parkhead.

Despite those goal Lafferty could not hold down a regular first team place and he was released by the club in April 1953 after four goals in seven first team appearances.