St Mirren FC pay tribute to former goalkeeper Billy Thomson

Thomson made almost 300 appearances for the Paisley club during a glittering career and, last year, was inducted to the St Mirren Hall of Fame.

Alongside defender Iain Munro, he holds the record for the most senior Scottish caps while a St Mirren player, having represented his country on seven occasions.

In a statement, the club said it was "deeply saddened" to hear of Thomson's death.

"Billy joined St Mirren in August 1978, after being signed from Partick Thistle by Jim Clunie," the statement added.

"The goalkeeper would make 284 appearances in the black and white and was part of our memorable Anglo Scottish Cup-winning side of 1980 before departing the club for Dundee United in 1984.

"In May 2022, Billy took his rightful place in the St Mirren Hall of Fame.

Billy Thomson made almost 300 appearances for St Mirren (Image: Sourced)

"Our deepest condolences are with the family and friends of Billy at this sad time."

As well as starring for Partick, St Mirren and Dundee United, Thomson also played for Motherwell, Rangers and Dundee.

He later went on to have lengthy coaching spells with Rangers and Kilmarnock and was Stranraer's goalkeeping coach this season.

A statement from Dundee United read: "We are saddened to learn of the passing of former player and Hall of Fame inductee Billy Thomson at the age of 64.

"Joining in 1984, Billy faced the unenviable task of taking over the gloves from Hamish McAlpine.

"A first-team regular until 1991, the goalkeeper made over 200 appearances for United, including being part of the squad that went all the way to the UEFA Cup final in '87.

"Everyone at Dundee United would like to extend their condolences to Billy's family and friends."