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Dubliner Pierce O’Leary joined Celtic in November 1984 from Canadian side Vancouver Whitecaps.

The brother of Arsenal star and fellow Irish international David, the tall centre-half made his competitive debut in a 2-1 Scottish Cup victory at Hamilton Accies on January 30th 1985.

A cultured rather than robust defender the former Shamrock Rovers man came on as substitute in the 1985 Scottish Cup final as Celtic came from behind to defeat Dundee United 2-1. The next season pelvic problems limited his chances for selection but he still made enough appearances to claim a League Championship medal after Celtic pipped Hearts for the title on the final day.

When Billy McNeill returned as Celtic manager in the summer of 1987 O’Leary had already slipped from the first team picture and as injuries continued to plague the player his time at Celtic was coming to a close.

He was released by the club in May 1988 after making 49 appearances and scoring one goal. He would retire later that year having never found another club after the Bhoys.