Overview
Willie came to the club from Shettleston Juniors as a centre forward, however it was as an inside right that he made his name with Accies. In a match at Tannadice he scored four of Accies goals from that position in a 5-0 win on 16th April 1932. When the club won the Second Eleven Cup in April 1934, Willie scored two of the goals in the first leg at Douglas Park in a 4-1 win over Motherwell, the second game finished goal less.
He was comfortable in any of the other front positions as well. He also played in goal in a match in which Jimmy Morgan was sent off and he saved a penalty that day, against Clyde, in November 1935 at Douglas Park. As a junior he was a prolific scorer and when he was signed by Accies the sum paid was the maximum to a junior club, £75.
Transferred to St Johnstone on 13th October 1936 for a £395 fee. In November 1938 he was signed by Morton, who were in the Second Division at the time and he scored on his debut for them.
Willie was 5’10” and tipped the scales at 11sts 8lbs. Hailed from Glasgow.
Debut on 15th August 1931 in a Scottish League match away to Ayr United in which he scored twice.
Scottish League 138 Appearances 33 Goals (1 Four)
Scottish Cup 10 Appearances 6 Goals
Lanarkshire Cup 7 Appearances 1 Goal
Accies Career
Links and References
- Read the fans' memories, or add your own, via this link.
- Please contact us if you have any information that will improve this page or if you spot any mistakes.
Full Name
William McLaren
1931-36
Position
Inside right
Born
Died
Signed by
Willie McAndrew
Debut
15 August 1931
Last Game
Honours
Clubs Played For
Shettleston Juniors
Hamilton Academical
St Johnstone
Morton