Outrage Grows as Celtic Accused of Abandoning Legend’s Legacy

A decision by Celtic to offer no financial support for the new Tommy Gemmell statue in Craigneuk has drawn widespread criticism from supporters and figures across Scottish sport.

The project, created by the local community, North Lanarkshire Council and the Tommy Gemmell Foundation, aims to honour one of the most significant defenders in the club’s history.

Tommy Gemmell, a key member of the Lisbon Lions, remains the only Scot ever to score in two European Cup finals. Despite that legacy, Celtic have not contributed to the statue’s funding, valued at around £90k. Fans have pointed out that even a modest donation would have reflected the club’s appreciation for one of its greatest players during a period where relations between supporters and the board are fragile.

Higgins Calls Out the Board’s Silence

World snooker champion John Higgins, who grew up in Lanarkshire, has helped raise funds for the project and expressed clear frustration after a win at the UK Snooker Championships in York.

“This is for one of the Lisbon Lions. The Tommy Gemmell Foundation, trying to get the statue erected in my hometown in Craigneuk. We have been running charity days and the funds are put in place and we will have a Lisbon Lions memorial up very soon which is great.

“You would think the clubs would do more. People like the Lisbon Lions were so iconic for the club and every Celtic fan, so you would think the club would be doing these things. It is baffling really that it is left up to people to raise money themselves to honour one of their best ever sons.”

Higgins’ frustration reflects a wider feeling that Celtic have missed a simple opportunity to reconnect with supporters. Many see this as symbolic of a boardroom that has struggled to build trust during a challenging period on and off the pitch.

Goodwill Opportunity Wasted

With fan relations at a low point, observers viewed this project as an easy moment for the hierarchy to show genuine appreciation for club legends. Instead, silence from the board has caused more disappointment and reopened long-standing debates about the club’s priorities.