Billy McNeill and Jon Clark, two legendary centre-backs

For a Celtic fan, central defenders Billy McNeill and John Clark formed one of the most legendary couples in their history, much like Athletic Club can be, for example, Goikoetxea and Liceranzu. Both led the Scottish backline for more than a decade and, of course, played a decisive role in the defence of the Lisbon Lions, winners of the European Cup in 1967 against Inter Milan. While Billy McNeill was the captain and leader of the team, John Clark was their faithful squire in the shadows, a sweeper nicknamed “The Brush” who complemented himself perfectly with his team-mate. While McNeill was the king in the air, Clark swept the low-range balls. A granite fortress.

They formed an inseparable binomial on the pitch, and this Sunday Athletic Club will unite them in a symbolic way during the One Club Man award, an award that José Ángel Iribar will give to Susan, daughter of the recently deceased McNeill, who will be accompanied by, as her father was during so many matches, John Clark. Before that, this Saturday night, the Club will offer the guests an institutional welcome dinner in Ibaigane.

Sunday’s dinner will undoubtedly be a thrilling evening that will culminate at the end of the match, when Athletic Club and the fans will pay tribute to the three lions who bid farewell to San Mamés: Mikel Rico, Ander Iturraspe and team captain Markel Susaeta.