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Fullname: Pierce O'Leary
Born: 5 Nov 1959
Birthplace: Dublin, Ireland
Signed: Nov 1984
Position: Centre-half, Defender
Internationals: Ireland
International Caps: 7
International Goals: 0

Biog

Dubliner Pierce O’Leary joined Celtic in November 1984 from Canadian side Vancouver Whitecaps for a reported fee of £50,000.

The brother of Arsenal star and fellow Irish international David, the tall centre-half made his competitive debut in a 2-1 Scottish Cup victory at Hamilton Accies on January 30th 1985 as Celtic had been crying out for a commanding centre half for some time.

A cultured rather than robust defender the former Shamrock Rovers man came on as substitute in the 1985 Scottish Cup final as Celtic came from behind to defeat Dundee United 2-1, his appearance had allowed Roy Aitken to move into midfield, a master stroke by David Hay which won Celtic the final.

The next season pelvic problems limited his chances for selection but he still made enough appearances to claim a League Championship medal after Celtic pipped Hearts for the title on the final day.

In August 1986 he proudly captained Celtic at Highbury against Arsenal, skippered by brother David in his own testimonial game, as the Hoops ran out winners by 2-0. In 1986/87 he scored his only goal in a 1-0 win at Love Street against St.Mirren on November 29th. On March 14th 1987 he was fielded at left back against Dundee at Dens Park. Celtic were leading 1-0 at half time but a rejuvenated Dundee scored four in the second half to win 4-1 and Pierce lost his place.

When Billy McNeill returned as Celtic manager in the summer of 1987 O’Leary had already slipped from the first team picture and as injuries continued to plague the player his time at Parkhead was coming to a close. He was released by the club in May 1988 after making 49 appearances and scoring one goal. He would retire later that year having never found another club after the Bhoys and also due to a Pelvic injury.

Playing Career

Honours with Celtic

Scottish Premier Division

• 1985-86

Scottish Cup

• 1985

Pictures

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