Craig was a gentleman who worked hard to forge a winning team spirit... I loved that about him: A personal tribute from Brown's former player - and great friend - PAT NEVIN

After my own father, Craig Brown was the most influential and important figure in my life.

Without him, I wouldn't have become a professional footballer. It really is as simple as that.

I was playing for Gartcosh United against what we thought was Clyde reserves in 1981. It turned out there were actually some first-team players in their team, I had no idea until later.

I scored a goal and played well that day and, on the way off, Craig cornered me and asked if I wanted to come and play for Clyde.

I said: 'Not really, I'm not interested, I'm doing a degree.