Jimmy ‘Jinky’ Johnstone, was born on the 30th September, 1944, in the district of Bothwell, Scotland. He enjoyed a wonderful childhood and it was the daily games of schoolboy football in his youth that would define his life and his place in history. Signed by Celtic in 1963, it’s a testimony to Johnstone’s magical balance, dribbling skills and sheer athleticism that he managed to play at the highest level for over twelve years without suffering a serious injury. His ability to make defenders, particularly English ones, look ponderous and muscle-bound in their efforts to stymie his inventiveness and creativity, endeared him to football followers everywhere, even Rangers fans. He became a footballing legend.
Jimmy Johnstone was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2001. He spent the last years of his life tirelessly researching and campaigning to find a cure for the disease. He died in March 2006.
Jimmy Johnstone was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2001. He spent the last years of his life tirelessly researching and campaigning to find a cure for the disease. He died in March 2006.
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