Comparing Celtic FC Greatest XI v Rangers FC Greatest XI Of All Time
RB – Sandy Jardine
Jardine showcased exceptional athletic prowess, rivaling many of today’s top left-backs, and maintained impressive stamina throughout matches. His versatility was one of his greatest assets, allowing him to excel in various positions, including wing-half and inside forward, before settling into the full-back role under manager Willie Waddell. His precise and cultured performances earned him acclaim as one of the best defenders at the 1974 World Cup, and he became a key player in Rangers’ Treble-winning teams of 1976 and 1978, as well as their victory in Barcelona.
Over his illustrious career, Jardine earned 39 caps for Scotland, participating in two World Cups, and made 674 appearances for Rangers, ranking him third on the club’s all-time list after Dougie Gray and John Greig. He scored 77 goals and won numerous honors, including three league championships, five Scottish Cups, five League Cups, and the European Cup Winners’ Cup, solidifying his legacy as a Rangers legend.
CB – Richard Gough
Richard Gough captained the Rangers team that achieved the remarkable feat of winning “Nine in a Row” consecutive league titles, making an impressive 427 appearances and securing 18 trophies during his tenure. He made history as the first Scottish player to be signed for over £1,000,000, establishing himself as a standout defender known for his commanding presence on the pitch.
In addition to his club success, Gough represented Scotland in two World Cups and captained the national team during the 1992 European Championships, further solidifying his status as one of Scotland’s top footballers. His contributions to both Rangers and the national team have cemented his legacy in Scottish football history.
CB – Derek Johnstone
Derek Johnstone was a star for Gers for almost 14 years, making 546 appearances for the Glasgow team over two spells. He was an outstanding Rangers player who was so versatile he could play with equal ease at centre-half, centre forward or in midfield and did so for both club and country.
Famously scored the winner at 16 in the 1970/71 League Cup final and triumphed in Europe two years later. He went on to score more than 200 goals for Rangers as well as appearing over 500 times for the club. He finished his career with three Scottish League First Division titles, five Scottish Cups and five Scottish League Cups.
LB- John Greig
John Greig is a true Rangers icon, spending his entire career with the club as a player, manager, and director. Voted “The Greatest Ever Ranger” by fans in 1999, he is also a proud member of the Rangers Hall of Fame. Greig became a symbol of resilience during a period dominated by Celtic and Jock Stein, ensuring Rangers remained a formidable force.
Throughout his career, he made 755 appearances and netted 120 goals, winning three domestic trebles. As captain, he led Rangers to a historic 3–2 victory over Dynamo Moscow in the 1972 European Cup Winners’ Cup final, cementing his legendary status.