Bobby Collins: A Famous Football Player for Celtic, Everton, and Leeds

Bobby Collins was a very good football player from Scotland. He played for big teams like Celtic, Everton, and Leeds United. He won many games and was loved by fans.
By Newsroom | Football, Sports |

A Legendary Figure on the Pitch

Bobby Collins, a Scottish footballer known for his combative spirit and skillful play, left an indelible mark on the sport. His career spanned significant periods at Celtic, Everton, and Leeds United, culminating in numerous accolades and a lasting legacy. He passed away in January 2014, following a prolonged illness, leaving behind a distinguished career that included international representation and a reputation for inspiring those around him.

Career Beginnings and Celtic's "Wee Barra"

Born in Glasgow, Collins joined Celtic in 1948 at the age of 17. He spent ten years with the Parkhead club, becoming a fan favorite and earning the nickname "The Wee Barra" due to his diminutive stature of 5ft 3in. During his tenure at Celtic, he achieved considerable success.

  • Trophies with Celtic:

  • Scottish Division One

  • Scottish Cup (1951)

  • League and Cup Double (1953/54)

  • League Cup (1957, 1958)

  • St Mungo Cup (1951)

  • Coronation Cup (1953)

Collins made a total of 320 appearances for Celtic, scoring 116 goals. Despite his contributions, there are indications that his relationship with club management was not always smooth, with one account suggesting a disagreement with "Mr Kelly." His passionate style of play, which included an instance of a controversial shoulder charge, sometimes led to disciplinary action, impacting team performance.

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Stints at Everton and Leeds United

In 1958, Collins transferred to Everton for what was then a club-record fee of £23,500. He remained at Goodison Park for four years, making 133 appearances and scoring at a rate of almost a goal every three games.

His next significant move was to Leeds United in 1962 for a similar fee. Under manager Don Revie, Collins became a pivotal figure in the team's ascent.

The Bobby Collins story – Celtic, Everton and Leeds Utd, born 95 years ago today - 1

  • Impact at Leeds United:

  • Instrumental in the club's rise under Don Revie.

  • Helped Leeds United achieve promotion to the top flight.

  • Captained the team, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie.

  • Voted Footballer of the Year in the 1964/65 season.

His combative and inspirational presence on the field was highly valued. Jack Charlton described Collins as a "very, very strong, skilful little player" who encouraged self-expression while offering support after mistakes. Collins' determination was so pronounced that he was once quoted as saying he would "kill his mother for a result."

International Career and Later Roles

Bobby Collins also represented Scotland on the international stage, earning 31 caps and scoring 10 goals. His debut for the national team was in October 1950. Notable international achievements include a goal against Paraguay in the 1958 World Cup and a brace against Poland.

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After retiring from playing, Collins transitioned into coaching and management. He had spells managing Huddersfield Town, Hull City, and Barnsley. He also returned to Leeds United for two separate periods, including a role coaching the youth teams in the late 1990s. His final managerial position was at Guiseley Celtic in the late 1980s.

Recognition and Enduring Legacy

Collins' impact was recognized not only by fans and teammates but also by the broader football community. He was described as a "club legend" by Celtic and "an inspiration" by Everton chairman Bill Kenwright. His 1965 Footballer of the Year award underscored his standing as one of the top players in English football during that era.

Despite his smaller physical presence, Collins' fierce passion, technical ability, and leadership qualities allowed him to dominate games and inspire those around him, solidifying his place as a significant figure in the histories of Celtic, Everton, and Leeds United.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Bobby Collins?
Bobby Collins was a famous Scottish football player. He played for Celtic, Everton, and Leeds United. He was known for his skill and strong playing style.
Q: What teams did Bobby Collins play for?
He played for Celtic for ten years. Then he played for Everton and later Leeds United. He also played for Scotland.
Q: What did Bobby Collins win?
He won many games and trophies with Celtic, including the Scottish League and Cup. He was also named Footballer of the Year in England.
Q: What was Bobby Collins like as a player?
He was a small player but very strong and skilled. Fans called him 'The Wee Barra'. He was a leader and inspired his teammates.