Ian St. John

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Ian St. John – Life, Career, and Legacy of a Scottish Football Legend

Explore the life and legacy of Ian St. John (1938–2021), the Scottish forward who starred for Liverpool and Scotland, scored the winning goal in the 1965 FA Cup Final, later became a manager and beloved broadcaster.

Introduction

Ian St. John (born John St John; June 7, 1938 – March 1, 2021) was a Scottish professional footballer, manager, and broadcaster whose career left an indelible mark on both club and national football. Though born in Motherwell, Scotland, his name is often most associated with Liverpool in the 1960s, where he played a crucial role in the club’s resurgence under Bill Shankly. He also represented Scotland internationally, later managed clubs, and became a popular television pundit. St. John’s journey is a story of grit, timing, reinvention, and passion for the game.

Early Life and Background

Ian St. John was born on June 7, 1938, in Motherwell, Lanarkshire, Scotland.

Growing up in a modest tenement in Motherwell, Ian had to help the family from a young age.

He also spent time playing for Douglas Water Thistle (on loan) early in his career. His early environment instilled in him toughness, work ethic, and adaptability.

Playing Career

Motherwell (1956–1961)

Ian St. John turned professional at Motherwell, making his senior debut in 1957.

One of his most remarkable feats for Motherwell was scoring a hat-trick in just 2 minutes and 30 seconds against Hibernian in 1959 — one of the fastest on record in Scottish football. His record at Motherwell in league play was impressive: 113 appearances and 80 goals.

St. John was part of the Motherwell side managed by Bobby Ancell, often referred to as “The Ancell Babes” — a youthful, attractive side that played with flair.

Liverpool (1961–1971)

In May 1961, Bill Shankly signed St. John for Liverpool for a then-record fee for the club: £37,500.

He made an immediate impact: in his debut (in a Merseyside derby), he scored a hat-trick against Everton (3 goals in a match).

Throughout the 1960s, St. John was integral to Liverpool’s rise as a top club in England. With Liverpool, he won:

• English First Division: 1963–64 and 1965–66

• Second Division: 1961–62 (promotion)

• FA Cup: 1964–65, with St. John scoring the winner in extra time against Leeds United.

• Charity Shields: 1964, 1965, 1966

One of his most famous moments came in the 1965 FA Cup Final: St. John scored a diving header deep into extra time (117th minute), securing Liverpool’s first-ever FA Cup victory.

During his Liverpool career, he played 424 matches (including cup matches, as records vary) and scored over 100 goals (league goals: 336 caps and 95 goals in league play) depending on source.

As he aged, his role evolved; he sometimes played deeper or provided link-up play rather than pure goal-scoring.

Later Clubs & Retirement

After leaving Liverpool in 1971, St. John spent brief periods with other clubs:

• Hellenic (South Africa): 1971 (23 appearances, 4 goals)

• Coventry City (1971–1972): 18 appearances, 3 goals

• Tranmere Rovers (1972–1973): 9 appearances, 1 goal

He officially ended his professional playing career around 1973.

International Career

Ian St. John played for the Scotland national team from 1959 to 1965. 21 caps and scored 9 goals for his country.

He made his Scotland debut on May 6, 1959, in a friendly against West Germany at Hampden Park.

In addition to representing Scotland, he also played for the Scottish League XI on four occasions, scoring six goals.

Managerial & Coaching Career

After retiring as a player, St. John transitioned into management and coaching, though with less dramatic success than in his playing days.

• Motherwell (1973–1974): He returned to his roots, managing his first club. During his single season, Motherwell finished mid-table.

• Portsmouth (1974–1977): He then moved south to England to manage Portsmouth. However, the club struggled under his tenure, facing financial and performance challenges.

• He also held assistant managerial roles at Sheffield Wednesday and Coventry City.

Management did not bring him the same renown as his playing career, but it did allow him to remain involved in football beyond his on-field years.

Broadcasting & Media Career

One of St. John’s most enduring roles was as a television and media personality. He co-hosted the sports television program Saint and Greavsie from 1985 to 1992 with fellow former player Jimmy Greaves.

He also worked as a pundit, commentator, and columnist, contributing to football discourse in Britain.

In addition, St. John established football camps called the "Ian St John Soccer Camps" to train younger players, helping pass on his passion to new generations.

Legacy, Honors & Influence

Honors & Recognition

• Scottish Football Hall of Fame Induction (2008): Recognized for his contributions to Scottish football.

• In fan polls by Liverpool (“100 Players Who Shook The Kop”), St. John was ranked among the club’s beloved players: 21st in 2006 and 33rd in 2013.

• His transfer from Motherwell helped finance infrastructure improvements at Fir Park (Motherwell’s stadium).

Influence & Character

Ian St. John embodied characteristics that endeared him to fans:

• Tenacity & Work Ethic: At just about 5 ft 7 in (around 1.70 m), he was not physically imposing, but he played with intensity and aggression.

• Versatility in Play: He could score, link play, hold up the ball, and assist — evolving his role as needed.

• Clutch Moments: His 1965 FA Cup winning goal is remembered as a defining moment for Liverpool.

• Media Persona: His transition from player to broadcaster helped keep him relevant beyond his playing years; many remember him not just as “Saint the player” but also “Saint the TV personality.”

• Mentorship & Youth Development: Through his soccer camps and coaching interest, he invested in the next generation of footballers.

His life also illustrates the shifting nature of a sports career: glory on the field, challenges off it, reinvention, and a lasting bond with fans.

Personal Trials & Later Life

In 2014, Ian St. John underwent surgery for bladder cancer, which included removal of his bladder and prostate.

He endured ongoing health challenges in his final years. On March 1, 2021, Ian St. John passed away at Arrowe Park Hospital, Merseyside, England, at the age of 82.

He was survived by his long-time wife, Betsy (whom he married in 1958), their children, and grandchildren.

Memorable Quotes & Reflections

While St. John was more known for action than aphorisms, here are a few reflections and commonly cited remarks connected to him:

• Regarding his signing by Liverpool, it is said that Shankly insisted:

  “Jesus Christ, can you not see we can’t afford not to buy him!”

• On his philosophy toward football and life, he was known for being direct, sincere, and grounded in interviews, emphasizing honesty and work over glamour.

• In interviews later in life, he often reflected on how surprising it was that he left Scotland and built much of his legacy in England, maintaining pride in his roots.

Because he was first and foremost a man of the pitch, his actions often spoke louder than words.

Lessons from Ian St. John’s Life & Career

• Reinvention is vital: St. John’s shift from star striker to coach to broadcaster shows how one can evolve with time.

• Moments define memory: Iconic contributions (like his Cup-winning header) can anchor how history remembers a player.

• Humility under acclaim: Despite fame, he maintained connection to roots and a grounded public persona.

• Impact beyond playing: He used his experience to mentor, coach, and communicate — extending his influence past his playing years.

• Resilience: From a challenging childhood to battling illness, his life demonstrates endurance, passion, and dignity.

Conclusion

Ian St. John’s journey from a modest upbringing in Motherwell to becoming a Liverpool legend and beloved broadcaster is testament to his talent, character, and adaptability. He remains an enduring figure in the history of Scottish and English football — not merely for his goals or trophies, but for the way he balanced ambition with integrity, and the way his legacy continues to resonate with fans.