This guy was the real deal

I had to smile at Simon Donnelly’s comparison of Henrik Larsson to Kenny Dalglish. Until Henrik came along, The New Dalglish was the reference point for any great prospect. And a few not-so-great ones.

Simon himself was one prominent recipient of this title. Back in 1994 Lou Macari’s Celtic were as bad as we’d been since the 50s when the teenage Donnelly burst onto the scene with five goals in the final 12 league games of the season. He was famously hailed as the new Dalglish, a comparison which was shown to be absurd during the barren season which followed.

When Henrik pitched up in Glasgow in 1997 all those comparisons must have crystallised for Simon. This guy was the real deal.

Although some starts shone brighter than others, both of them played their part in the historic title win in 1998. Celtic fans will never know a time like that again. When Simon, Henrik and friends gather for the Foundation game in May, more than a few of us will recall that titanic season.

On the subject of memorable league title wins…….

We have a short-run raffle for two Celtic end tickets for Tynecastle on Sunday, courtesy Celtic sponsor, Intelligent Car Leasing. You can enter here for a minimum donation of £5. Please email me, celticquicknews@gmail.com with the word “Party” in the subject line to confirm your donation and entry. And include as many contact details as you think prudent to ensure you hear about your win. Competition ends tomorrow, so get in quick.

You also need to be available to collect your tickets in Glasgow on Friday.  Thanks to those who entered yesterday.