One to XI: Ian Clinging

Today’s ex-footballer certainly enjoyed the Best of times on the pitch…

4. Ian Clinging

The Motherwell-based postman made more than 100 first team appearances for his home club between 1976 and 1983.

He broke his leg three times while at Fir Park, which had a big impact on his career progression. He moved to Hong Kong before returning to Scotland, where he played for a further six years with Greenock Morton. He also had stints at Forfar and Berwick Rangers.

Ian played against and with the great George Best several times, and fondly recalls being in Motherwell teams that defeated both sides of the Old Firm to stop them lifting the title.

He was the last person to score for Morton in the Scottish top flight, when he netted a consolation against Hibernian as his side were relegated.

‘My career highlight was, undoubtedly, playing against the legendary George Best,’ said Ian. ‘He brought his San Jose Earthquakes side to Fir Park for a friendly, and we beat them 5-2. I even scored!’

Lookout for our special football feature in January’s Courier.