Great Lives Jock Stein, first British football manager to win the European Cup
Oct 6, 2025
Sir James MacMillan, a celebrated Scottish composer, and Archie MacPherson, a renowned football journalist, dive into the remarkable life of Jock Stein, the first British manager to win the European Cup. They explore Stein's mining roots, his tactical genius, and the emotional highs of Celtic's historic 1967 win. Their discussion touches on the fierce Rangers–Celtic rivalry, Stein’s distinctive managerial style, and his untimely collapse while coaching Scotland. MacMillan also reflects on how Stein's legacy inspired his musical works.
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Rivalry Is Social Identity
- The Rangers–Celtic rivalry mixes identity, religion, and politics, sometimes erupting into violence.
- James and Archie stress the rivalry's deep social roots, not merely sporting competition.
Discipline Over Sentiment
- Archie recounts Stein's managerial path from Dunfermline to Hibernian and the strict, sometimes brutal treatment of players.
- He tells of John Hughes losing Stein's favour after hiding an injury before a cup final.
Underdog Unity In Lisbon
- Archie praises Celtic's self-possessed style in Lisbon and credits team unity under captain Billy McNeill.
- He highlights Ronnie Simpson's unlikely journey from Hibernian to European Cup hero under Stein.
