It was one of the steals of the century when Celtic managed to wrap up a deal for John Hartson under Martin O’Neill shortly after Rangers had agreed a deal for him but dropped out after an issue with his medical.
It’s all in the history books now but there was a time when John Hartson was poised to sign on the dotted line for the Ibrox club and pull on a light blue jersey.
As we know, John wouldn’t make the move, but not because he didn’t want it at the time. He believes the Ibrox club treated him unfairly with regards to his medical.
“Listen, I would have signed for Rangers without question. I had no allegiance to Celtic at that stage. But I failed four medicals in my career and that was the best one.” Hartson told SunSport.
“My feeling was that Rangers treated me unfairly. They waved a contract under my nose, took me to Ibrox where I was pictured, and then whipped it away again. Their mistake.
“It was wonderful (his time at Celtic), from start to finish. The best four years of my career by far. I formed a bond with the supporters because I gave them everything I had. I’m proud of the 110 goals I scored.”
It’s unimaginable to think about the scenario playing out now.
John went on to be Celtic icon and a constant thorn in the side of the Ibrox club who he loved scoring against.
The Welshman would also fall in love with the place and has been a Celtic supporter ever since.
Their loss was certainly Celtic’s gain.
