Flashback Ricky was a rare breed
It’s largely uncommon these days for a footballer to earn a testimonial.
In recent years St Mirren’s Hugh Murray is the only one that really springs to mind.
But back in 2005 Saints paid tribute to long-serving midfielder Ricky Gillies at his testimonial match against Celtic.
He was joined on the emotional night by sons Ronan, aged five, and three-year-old Max – both of whom were named as mascots for the occasion – along with wife Kate.
And former Saints stars Barry McLaughlin, Steven McGarry, Ludovic Roy and Mark Yardley were all returning to Paisley to help honour their former team-mate.
The 28-year-old’s St Mirren career began 12 years ago when he was signed on an S-form by former Youth Development officer Joe Hughes.
He went on to make his firstteam debut at 16 in a 5-0 win over Golden boy
St Mirren FC is a club with a proud tradition — and a history to match.
They have been at the centre of the Scottish game since their formation in 1877.
Today, we look back at the career of Ricky Gillies, who earned a testimonal having made more than 350 appearances for Saints
Cowdenbeath – becoming the youngest player to pull on the famous black and white stripes.
He was quick to establish himself in the Saints starting XI– and he would also feature in the Scotland Under-21 side.
He would soon attract the interest of big clubs down south including the mighty Liverpool – where he had a week’s trial – and London giants Arsenal.
But it was former Saints player Roy Aitken who captured his signature and Ricky headed north to Aberdeen where he spent two years on the books at Pittodrie.
He returned to Love Street in the championship winning season of 1999/2000 and went on to be the club’s top player – and also goalscorer – during their exciting season in the Scottish Premier League.
Gillies made more than 350 appearances for St Mirren and scored 56 goals.
Many clubs had tried to wrestle Ricky away, but he had always been reluctant to leave what many believe is his spiritual home and the place where he played his best football.
He would soon attract the interest of big clubs down south including the mighty Liverpool