Celtic and St Mirren hero Frank McGarvey has sadly passed away age 66.
The family of the Hoops and Buddies legend revealed back in October that he had been diagnosed with cancer with his son Sean taking to social media this morning to break the tragic news. He tweeted: "Our much loved Dad sadly passed away this morning with his family by his side. We are so thankful for all the support we have received over the past few months."
The former Celtic, St Mirren and Scotland striker made an appearance on the Parkhead pitch at half-time during a 6-1 win over Hibs. He was left emotional after the support shown by the Hoops faithful following a warm reception. A tribute from Celtic read: "Everyone at Celtic is extremely saddened to hear of the death of former striker, Frank McGarvey, who passed away earlier this morning (January 1) at the age of 66.
"Frank spoke to supporters at Celtic Park ahead of the game against Hibernian back in October to thank them for all their support over the years, and in particular, more recently following the news that he was battling cancer.
"Frank’s career as a professional footballer began with St Mirren in 1975, and he spent four years with the Paisley before moving south to join Liverpool. After 10 months at Anfield, he returned to Scotland, signing for his beloved Celtic in March 1980 for a fee of around £270,000, becoming, for a short time, became Scotland's most expensive footballer.
"Over the next five years, Frank went on to play 245 times for Celtic, scoring 109 goals, and he is one of only 30 players in Celtic’s history to have scored at least a century of goals for the club.
"He won two league titles, two Scottish Cups and the League Cup with Celtic, and is fondly remembered for his wonderful diving header goal to win the Scottish Cup in 1985. He would go on to win the Scottish Cup again with St Mirren in 1987, having returned to the Paisley club for a second spell.
"Frank would later have spells playing with Queen of the South, Clyde, Shotts Bon Accord and Troon, and at international level, he gained seven caps for Scotland.
"The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Celtic are with Frank’s family at this extremely sad time. Rest in peace, Frank. You'll Never Walk Alone.
John Hartson added: "Rest In Peace Frank McGarvey.. thoughts are with the McGarvey family and close friends at this sad time."
St Mirren tweeted: "St Mirren Football Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Frank McGarvey at the age of 66.
"Frank will forever be remembered at St Mirren and our deepest condolences are with Frank's loved ones at this very sad time."
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