Stars of the ’70s: No 10, Jackie Campbell

Published on 17/10/2012 00:00

AFTER arriving at Firhill from Greengaire United in 1964, defender Jackie Campbell spent his entire senior career with Partick Thistle, racking up 579 appearances in 18 years.

But that run almost ended in its infancy when he walked out in the summer of 1972 during a dispute over personal terms. Knowing Thistle were entitled to hold on to his registration, he was prepared to give up football entirely. A draughtsman by trade, he already had a secure job in Cumbernauld.

He stayed away until almost Christmas, kept fit by playing in office five-a-sides, and only
returned after Thistle came to him with an improved offer.

Renowned for his composure and strength, Campbell was often the rock which held the Thistle defence together.

After promotion in 1971, his proudest moment came the next season when written-off Thistle shocked the football world by thrashing Jock Stein’s all-conquering Celtic 4-1 in the League Cup final.