The Quiet Lion

J. J. Whelan 23/06/25

From Chaplehall he did hail
For the hoops he’d never fail
Not for the accolade or roaring fame,
But for the badge, the crest, the name.

Sweeper still, both strong and brave,
Who read the game while opposition he did enslave.
McNeill beside, he held the line,
In sixty-seven Celtics golden time.

Quiet Man, with heart of steel,
Shadow near, but always real.
No swagger, just a Celtic soul.
Who played his part in history’s goal.

Through Hampden roars and Ibrox fights,
Through storm and song and floodlit nights,
Humble gent both on and off the park.
Just did his duty,
Famously he was John Clark.

From a mining village to Paradise,
He lived the dream that few entice.
Lion, not for self or show,
But for Celtics cause he fought we know.

Now Heaven’s pitch has one more great,
A Lisbon Lion passed through those gates.
So raise a glass and sing his name,
John Clark, eternal in the game.
🍀🦁💚