Amid the emotion of yesterday’s tributes to Billy McNeill one Lisbon story had a very happy ending.
Almost 52 years after claiming the best bench at the Estadio Nacional John Fallon was reunited with his medal. The only substitute allowed in those days was a keeper.
John Fallon – substitute goalkeeper for the Lisbon Lions on 1967
Glad to report that he has had returned the original medal that was taken from him. Much respect to Celtic for this.
See following for full story:https://t.co/Aiz573sDjt pic.twitter.com/sXyKL27Z8K
— JoeBloggsCity (@joebloggscity) April 28, 2019
After being presented with a medal along with the rest of the players at the after-match reception it seems that Fallon’s medal was returned to UEFA to be given to the match referee.
Where it has been since then remains something of a mystery but yesterday it was returned to the original Holy Goalie who still attends matches home and away with the passion that kept clean sheets at the Bernabeau and the San Siro.
A week after lifting the European Cup Celtic were invited to play in Alfredo di Stefano’s testimonial match. Stein opted not to play the XI that started in Lisbon with Fallon outstanding against Real Madrid with Bobby Lennox scoring the only goal of the game.
There were plenty of other highlights during his 14 year Celtic career including a key role in the 1968/69 treble winning side.
CLICK HERE for more details on a remarkable career of dedication to Celtic.
How much has he been missed? Looks like he is getting very close to a return to action.https://t.co/uygQC2UAUq
— Joe McHugh (@videocelts) April 28, 2019