ThedaybigYogi put me on the spot at Ibrox
I was saddened to hear of the passing of John “Yogi” Hughes last Monday.
John was a giant of a man in so many ways, and I was very fond of him.
As a player, he had a formidable record, and was a highly-talented footballer who made a fantastic contribution to Celtic.
As a person, I enjoyed his company, and he was great to be around. He had a really nice way about him, and made people feel at ease.
I’ll never forget he was one of the first players to hug me in celebration when I scored my first-ever goal against Rangers in a League Cup tie at Ibrox.
Indeed, it was big Yogi who got pulled down for the penalty-kick that day.
To my surprise, big Billy McNeill handed me the ball, and told me to take it. I was shocked and nervous! Big Billy was feeling compassionate that day! Thankfully, I scored.
The likes of Yogi made that afternoon feel smooth for me, and they were great in the dressing-room before kick-off, urging me to relax and try to enjoy it.
It’s just so sad he is no longer with us, and it always leaves you taking stock when someone from the 1967 European Cupwinning era passes away.
It makes you want to treasure life, and enjoy every day as best you can.
Big Yogi was 79, and had a good innings, but it’s never easy to see someone pass on. However, we all know that it’s an inevitability for all of us.
Many people will have reminisced about Yogi in the past few days, and will do so for the next wee while. Rightly so.
He will be missed, and the thoughts and prayers in the Dalglish household are with the Hughes family.