When he signed for Celtic in 1964, then aged 34, it had been as cover for goalkeeper John Fallon and his teammates affectionately nicknamed him ‘Faither’ because of his advancing years.
Goalkeepers are renowned as a breed apart but, even so, it remains incredible that three years after he joined Celtic Simpson could boast a European Cup, league title, Scottish Cup, Scottish League Cup and a Glasgow Cup as they made a clean sweep of all trophies going in their astounding 1966-67 campaign.
Not only that, but the Lisbon Lion had already won a league and league cup the season before and would go on to pick up two more leagues, another league cup and Glasgow Cup by the time he finished.
Long career
Simpson (1930-2004) retired after a dislocated shoulder meant he missed Celtic’s 1970 European Cup final defeat. It had certainly been a long career – his first senior appearance came for Glasgow amateur club Queen’s Park in 1945, aged just 14 years and 304 days. He also earned five Scotland caps, making his debut aged 36 years and 196 days.
The League Cup medal he won in that ‘clean sweep’ season is now coming to The Sporting Medals & Trophies Auction on August 28 at McTear’s in Glasgow, estimated at £1000-2000. The 9ct gold, 8.6gm honour is offered for sale “on behalf of a close friend of the late player”.
Celtic beat fierce Old Firm rival Rangers 1-0 in the final on October 29, 1966.
