Tributes paid to former footballer Jimmy Bone following death aged 75

Tributes are being paid to former footballer and manager Jimmy Bone following his death at the age of 75.

The forward represented a string of clubs, including Partick Thistle, St Mirren, and Hearts, with distinction during an 18-year playing career.

He also had a short spell at Celtic and won three Scotland caps as well as playing in England and abroad.

In 1971 he was part of the famous League Cup winning Partick Thistle side that shocked Scottish football by defeating Jock Stein’s all conquering Hoops side at Hampden.

Bone scored one of the goals in a 4-1 victory for the Jags at Hampden, against a Celtic side who were in the middle of a nine in a row run and had reached the European Cup final just over a year earlier.

After hanging up his boots he took to the dugout to manage clubs such as East Fife, Arbroath and St Mirren.

His last job in management was a caretaker role at the Jags in 2007.

After his retirement he was inducted into the hall of fame at both Partick Thistle and St Mirren.

Following news of his death, the Maryhill club’s fan representative director Allan McGraw said: “Jimmy was a hero of mine. I watched him score in the 1971 League Cup Final and had the pleasure of meeting him at the 2021 Reunion Lunch.

“He was kind enough to sign a jersey for me at that event and we had a long chat about that wonderful day and other Thistle memories.

“My heartfelt condolences go out to his friends and family at this very sad time.”

In a statement released through Partick Thistle, Jimmy’s son David said: “I would like to pass on the thanks of the family to everyone at Partick Thistle. We would like to thank the staff that supported us at the weekend and the fans who have sent so many messages about my dad.

“It is humbling for all of us to feel the love that people had for him.”

St Mirren also paid tribute to their former player and manger, saying: “St Mirren Football Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jimmy Bone at the age of 75.

“The thoughts of everyone at St Mirren are with Jimmy’s loved ones at this sad time.”

And, in a statement released on social media, Hearts said: “Heart of Midlothian is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jimmy Bone.

“Joining the club in 1983, Jimmy was a key figure in the club’s revival in the 80s, scoring 14 times in 70 appearances for the Jambos.

“Our thoughts are with Jimmy’s family and friends. Forever in our Hearts.”

During his time in England, Bone spent two seasons at Norwich City, helping them win the old Second Division before scoring their first top-flight goal.

The Carrow Road club said: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of former player Jimmy Bone and send our thoughts to his family and friends.

“Jimmy scored the club’s first ever goal in Division One.”