Celtic star Henrik Larsson helped many people achieve things they couldn’t at Celtic in his stellar seven-year spell at Parkhead – but none more so than Jim Goodwin, who says his professionalism has helped him through a poor part of his career and improved his mindset in eventually coming St Mirren manager.
Goodwin, 40, became Alloa manager in October 2016, and led the club to promotion to the Scottish Championship and then survival despite being a part-time club.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – APRIL 8: Henrik Larsson of Celtic celebrates scoring the first goal for Celtic during the UEFA Cup Quarter Final match between Celtic and Villarreal at Celtic Park on April 8, 2004 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
His efforts caught the attentions of St Mirren, who appointed him as manager in June 2019.
And having played at Celtic from the age of 16 to 21 – even though he made just one appearance – the Waterford-born defender has thanked Larsson for his efforts in helping him return from injury mentally.
“A fantastic guy, yeah,” Goodwin said on The Football Show.
“Obviously another iconic figure. You talk about the number seven jersey, spoke about Kenny Dalglish wore it, Jimmy Johnston wore it and obviously Henrik has worn it as well.
“You’ve got to be a top, top player to wear that jersey at Parkhead. Henrik was obviously a fantastic player. He scored some unbelievable goals for the club.”
“I was fortunate enough to have trained with him. Fortunate enough to have worked with him closely in the gym. Both him and I were injured at one time. He was coming back from his serious leg break and we kind of got to know each other. Obviously he was a lot older than I was but he was very forthcoming with advice, with some words of wisdom.
“Just a top, top professional.”
Goodwin’s men currently sit eighth in the league after 22 games, just three points off the top half.
They sat sixth after just fourteen games, but a slump has since seen them drop into the bottom half.
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