John Fallon

The Lisbon Lion who was Celtic's substitute goalkeeper in the 1967 European Cup Final.

John Fallon (16 August 1940 – 22 July 2025) was a Scottish goalkeeper who joined Celtic from Fauldhouse United in December 1958. He became the first-choice keeper in 1963 before Ronnie Simpson arrived in 1965, and was one of the unused substitutes in the 1967 European Cup Final against Inter Milan.

Quick Facts

Born: 16 August 1940
Birthplace: Cambuslang, Scotland
Died: 22 July 2025
Height: 1.80 m / 5 ft 11 in
Position: Goalkeeper
Total caps: 124

Lore & Background

When starter Ronnie Simpson was struck by a brick (described by chairman Sir Robert Kelly as a 'flat iron bar') during the second leg of the Intercontinental Cup against Racing Club, Fallon had to play. He kept goal through a bad-tempered match and an even worse play-off in Montevideo. His string of saves led one commentator to ask: 'If that's the reserve keeper, what must the other guy be like?'

Reader's Guide

Fallon's career at Celtic spanned from 1958 to 1971. He debuted in September 1959 against Clyde and played a key role in the 1964 Cup Winners' Cup run before losing his place to Ronnie Simpson. After Simpson's retirement, Fallon returned as first choice until a long illness cost him his spot for the 1970 European Cup Final. He left Celtic in 1971 to play for Motherwell and Morton before retiring from senior football.