Ex-United star’s tribute to Dark Blue McGlashan

FORMER Dundee United star Simon Murray has paid tribute to ex-Dundee FC player John McGlashan.

The former midfielder died at the age of 50 on Tuesday. It is believed he had been battling motor neurone disease for a number of years.

Born in Dundee in 1967, John also played for Montrose, Arbroath, Millwall, Rotherham United, Fulham, Peterborough United and Ross County.

He managed Arbroath from 2005 until 2009, as well as serving as manager of Tayport Juniors between 2011 and 2014.

It was while at Tayport that he developed a strong bond with Simon, who now plays for Hibs.

Simon told the Tele: “John had always been part of my life.

“He was a friend of my dad Gary for as long as I can remember. John was always so fit — he never smoked and he would cycle everywhere.

“He was quite a private person and didn’t want people making a fuss over him — it’s just the way he was.

“When I played for Dundee United, I met up with him every week. He was so supportive of my football career.

“My dad took John under his wing when he was playing and John did the same with me.

“He was more like a second dad to me.

“John looked out for everyone but it just so happened we had that wee extra bond.

“He was just a great person and I want to say a massive thank you for all he did for me — I am going to miss him hugely.”

John started his professional football career with Montrose in 1988 after playing for junior side John McGlashan gets the better of Dundee United’s Tassos Venetis during his playing days with Arbroath. Dundee Violets, whom he would also go on to manage. He stayed at the club until 1990 when he left to join Millwall. During his time in England, he also had a spell as manager of Millwall Lionesses women’s team. Returning to Scotland i n 1997, John signed for Dundee, before going on to play for Ross County and Arbroath. Former Arbroath chairman John Christison, who appointed John as the Red Lichties’ manager, said he was “devastated.” A spokesman for Tayport FC said: “Our thoughts are with John’s family at this sad time.”