From The Celtic Wiki: Goal machine John “Dixie” Deans would prove to be one of Jock Stein’s most astute signings.
The Celtic manager caused a sensation in Scottish football when he signed the controversial Motherwell forward in October 1971 for £17.5k in the aftermath of the disastrous defeat to Partick Thistle in the League Cup Final.
The robust and gutsy forward had earned himself a reputation as a troublemaker for his on-field antics with the Lanarkshire club and at the time of Stein’s surprise swoop Deans was serving a six week ban.
However under the guidance of Stein the player cleaned-up his act and although he would remain a ferocious competitor his discipline improved beyond recognition.
Deans went on to score 124 goals in 184 appearances in the Hoops between 1971 and 1976, winning three Scottish League titles, two Scottish Cups and one League Cup.
A Celtic and Motherwell legend, Dixie Deans passed away on 9 December 2025, aged 79.
