Born in Motherwell, Ian St John joined in 1957 after a brief stay with Motherwell’s feeder club, Douglas Water Thistle. St John was a centre forward most people associate with the ‘Ancell Babes’, he was a brilliant finisher and with the talent of Quinn, Hunter Weir and Reid all on board, he exploited the skills of these players superbly. In 1958/59 he netted 31 times and his scoring ability became legendary. On the 15th August 1959, Ian scored a two and a half minute hat trick away to Hibernian in a League Cup tie, he also netted six against Brazilian side Flamengo and this earned ‘the Saint’ great fame.
In May 1961 he joined Liverpool for £37,500 and he was a huge success at Merseyside. His Liverpool debut came against rivals Everton and he scored a hat-trick and with this he became an instant hit with the fans. He finished his career with short spells at Coventry City and Tranmere Rovers, before being named new Motherwell manager in June 1973. His stay as ‘Well boss was very impressive. He brought in firstly Bobby Graham and then Willie Pettigrew, and the side these players played in brought in average attendances of 10,000. After only 15 months in charge Ian left to take over as Portsmouth manager in 1974.
Name:
|
Ian St John |
Height:
|
5′ 7″ |
Weight:
|
10st 4lbs |
Date of Birth:
|
7th June 1938 |
Place of Birth:
|
Motherwell |
Position:
|
Forward |
Nationality:
|
Scottish |
Football Career:
Motherwell | 1957 | 1961 |
Liverpool | 1961 | 1971 |
Coventry City | 1971 | 1972 |
Tranmere Rovers | 1972 | 1973 |
Well Career:
Apps | Goals | |
League:
|
113 | 79 |
Scottish Cup:
|
14 | 13 |
League Cup:
|
17 | 13 |
Other:
|
0 | 0 |
Total:
|
144 | 105 |