Mo Johnston Signing

The first open Catholic to play for Rangers since World War I.

In July 1989, Mo Johnston made a historic move from Celtic to Rangers, joining Graeme Souness's squad. He became only the second player to cross the Old Firm divide since World War II, following Alfie Conn, and the first open Catholic to play for Rangers since World War I. Although other Catholics had signed previously, Johnston was recognized as their first major Roman Catholic signing. The transfer ignited immediate backlash: a handful of Rangers fans burned scarves and threatened to surrender season tickets, while Celtic supporters branded him 'Judas'.

Quick Facts

Player name: Mo Johnston
Position: Forward
Previous club: Celtic
Manager: Graeme Souness
Significance: First open Catholic to play for Rangers since World War I

Lore & Background

From the early 20th century onwards, Rangers maintained an unwritten rule against knowingly signing Roman Catholics or employing them in prominent roles. This policy was a deeply entrenched part of the club's identity until Graeme Souness took charge. Johnston's arrival shattered this tradition, though he was not technically the very first Catholic to ever sign for the club, just the highest-profile one since the World War I era. The move caused deep anger on both sides of Glasgow.

While a small group of Rangers fans protested violently with burnt scarves and threats, the majority of attendances held firm. Johnston faced significant hostility from his new teammates initially; kitman Jimmy Bell refused to dispense chocolate bars to him or arrange his kit until he scored against Celtic. That turning point arrived in November 1989 when Johnston netted a late winner in an Old Firm derby, finally winning over a large portion of the Rangers support.