Jock Wallace

Lore & Background

Wallace's playing career began at Workington in 1952, after being released by Blackpool. He served in the King's Own Scottish Borderers during National Service, playing for Berwick Rangers, and later played for Airdrieonians, West Bromwich Albion, Bedford Town, and Hereford United. His managerial career started as player-manager of Berwick Rangers in 1966. In 1967, his Berwick side famously defeated Rangers in the Scottish Cup. He then coached at Hearts in 1968. In 1970, he joined Rangers as coach under Willie Waddell, helping win the 1971–72 European Cup Winners' Cup. He became Rangers manager after Waddell left, winning the Scottish Cup in his first season (the club's centenary). In 1974–75, he ended Celtic's nine-year league dominance, winning the title for the first time in eleven years. He won trebles in 1975–76 and 1977–78. He unexpectedly resigned in 1978, with the cause never fully established. He later managed Leicester City (winning the Second Division in 1980 and reaching the 1982 FA Cup semi-finals), Motherwell, and returned to Rangers in November 1983, winning two League Cups before being sacked in April 1986. He also managed Sevilla (1986–87) and Colchester United (1988–90). He died from Parkinson's disease in 1996.

In Their Own Story

Inside the dugout, Wallace radiated a steely calm that cut through the panic. He did not need grand speeches; his resolve was enough to galvanize a squad on the brink of collapse. That season, he orchestrated one of British football's greatest escapes, proving that grit could overcome financial and sporting despair.

Reader's Guide

Wallace was renowned for his temper and ability to terrify players he thought were not trying. Gary Lineker recalled being pinned against a dressing room wall at half-time despite having scored both goals in a 2–0 lead. Mark Warburton described Wallace's training methods as like a Marine, with runs on sand-dunes until players vomited. However, most of his players adored him.

Did You Know?

• Wallace is the only player ever to play in the English, Welsh and Scottish Cups in the same season (1966–67).
• He famously managed Berwick Rangers to a Scottish Cup upset over Rangers in 1967.
• As Rangers manager, he ended Celtic's nine-year league dominance in 1974–75.
• He attempted to sign Johan Cruyff for Leicester City in January 1981, but no deal was agreed.
• He supported a young Ally McCoist during his second spell at Rangers.