[Player Pics]

John Smith – although commonly known by his middle name Eric – signed for Celtic from junior side Benburb in April 1953.

A highly-rated junior player he made his debut in October the following year in a home league clash with Queen of the South which ended 1-1.

Eric was an all action style of player who could slot into virtually any position across the park and in his time at Parkhead he played at half-back, inside-forward and on the wings. He relished the physical aspect of the game and loved to get stuck in. His combination of courage and skill allowed him to take games by the scruff of the neck and he was a hugely popular figure with the Celtic support.

By season 1957-58 he was an established first team regular and was called up by Scotland for a summer tour in 1959. In May 1960 he was tempted south to Leeds by Don Revie after making 130 appearances for Celtic and scoring 20 goals.

He later became manager of Morton and Hamilton before going on to coach in Cyprus and the Middle East. He died in Dubai in 1991 after suffering a heart attack.