Pat Bonner

The goalkeeper with the most appearances in Celtic's history: four League Championships, three Scottish Cups and a League Cup.

Patrick Joseph Bonner is an Irish retired footballer who spent his entire senior career at Scottish club Celtic. Known commonly as Pat or Packie, he played as a goalkeeper, making 483 league appearances and 646 overall for the club, more than any other goalkeeper in its history.

Quick Facts

Role

Goalkeeper

Club tenure

1978–1994 (released)
re-signed 1994
left 1998

Total appearances

646 overall (483 league)

Major honours

Four League Championships
three Scottish Cups
one League Cup

Lore & Background

Bonner signed for Celtic on 14 May 1978 after Sean Fallon spotted him while he was set to join Finn Harps; his original manager tore up the contract so Bonner could move. Released by Lou Macari in 1994, he was re-signed by Tommy Burns and won the 1995 Scottish Cup final before leaving in 1998 to become a coach.

Reader's Guide

Bonner played his entire senior career at Celtic from May 1978 until 1998 (with a brief departure in 1994). He made 646 total appearances, winning four League Championships, three Scottish Cups, and one League Cup. He also played Gaelic football for Donegal at minor and senior levels.