The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Tributes paid to ‘local hero’ and former Dundee player
John McGlashan, who also played for Arbroath and Montrose, dies after battle with illness
Tributes have been paid to former Dundee FC player and youth coach John McGlashan who has died at the age of 50.
The former midfielder, described as a “local hero”, is believed to have been battling an illness prior to his death.
The Dark Blues hailed Mr McGlashan as “one of our own”, saying he was a Dundee FC fan from birth who had been proud to play for his home team.
Mr McGlashan , born in Dundee in 1967, also played for Montrose, Arbroath, Millwall, Rotherham United, Fulham, Peterborough United and Ross County.
He managed Arbroath FC from 2005 until 2009.
Dundee FC paid tribute, saying: “Everyone at Dundee Football Club was saddened to learn of the death of former Dundee midfielder and youth coach John McGlashan who passed away aged just 50.
“John McGlashan was ‘one of our own’ as a Dundee boy who lived the dream of pulling on the dark blue and playing his part in a title winning campaign.
“The thoughts of everyone at Dens Park are with his family and friends at this sad time.”
Dundee FC historian Kenny Ross said Mr McGlashan was “highly thought of” and many would describe him as a “local hero”. He said: “John came in from part-time football and was a Dundee fan, which was pretty rare.
“He was proud and excited to play for his home team.
“He was highly regarded and thought of as a local hero, especially because of his involvement with coaching youth teams at Showcase the Street.”
Mr McGlashan’s professional football career began in Montrose after he joined the club from Dundee Violet.
He was known for his powerful running, which he made good use of in his midfield role, and his ability to find the back of the net.
After joining Millwall in 1990, he was a team-mate of future Spurs, Manchester United and England striker Teddy Sheringham.
Mr McGlashan returned to his home city after signing for Dundee FC in 1997, making his debut off the bench in a 3-0 away win at Partick Thistle.
His first Dundee goal was in a 3-1 win at Stirling Albion. A week later he scored the equaliser against Ross County in the Scottish Cup.
After joining Ross County in 1998, he went on to score nine times in 49 appearances before leaving for Arbroath in August 2000.
Arbroath FC said in tribute: “We have been left shocked, stunned and saddened by the news of the passing of our former player and manager John McGlashan.
“John was a true gent and a real friend of the club. Our thoughts are with John’s family and he will forever be in our hearts.”