Why Celtic players are wearing black armbands against Aberdeen

Celtic are currently facing Aberdeen at Pittodrie in the penultimate Scottish Premiership clash of the 2024/25 season.

And fans at the game or watching on the TV will have noticed that Celtic players are all wearing black armbands.

That’s because it was confirmed earlier today that former Celtic chairman Jack McGinn peacefully passed away at the age of 92.

McGinn was also formerly the president of the SFA and it was reported that friends and family were by his side as he died at St Margaret of Scotland Hospice in Clydebank.

As a mark of respect, Celtic announced the first-team players fielded for tonight’s clash against Aberdeen would all wear black armbands.

Who was Jack McGinn?

Jack McGinn first became associated with Celtic in 1965 when he suggested to the club’s board that they should establish their own newspaper.

He became The Celtic View’s first editor and the publication was officially launched on August 11, 1965. It remains the oldest football club newspaper in the sport.

In 1981, Jack was appointed Celtic’s commercial manager and thus was given a seat on the board. Four years later, he would become vice-chairman and then chairman in 1986.

His tenure as Celtic chairman lasted until 1991, with the Bhoys winning three major domestic trophies during his reign.

Jack was responsible for bringing Billy McNeill back as manager for a second time and was at the helm during Celtic’s centenary year celebrations in 1988.

From 1991 to 1994, Jack was a non-executive director at Celtic Park before stepping away altogether and later becoming chairman of the SFA.

Peter Lawwell pays tribute to Jack McGinn

Current Celtic chairman Peter Lawwell has said: “I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Jack’s family following his sad passing.

“I first met Jack 35 years ago, and he was a fine, humble, unassuming man, a true Celtic man who always did his very best for the club he loved.

He gave his full energy and commitment to Celtic across a number of roles, often in difficult times for the club but always working in the best interests of Celtic.

“I know he will be sadly missed by his family, friends and so many people at the club. We send our heartfelt thoughts and prayers.”