BELL, Douglas
born. 05.09.1959, Paisley
Signed from Birmingham City in the close-season of 1991-92, Manager John Lambie described the ex Ab
erdeen midfielder as the fittest player he had ever signed from England. His career started at Cumbernauld United before moving senior with Premier League St Mirren, he made his league debut for the Saints at Firhill with the Jags hammering the visitors 5-0. He failed to command a regular first XI place at Love Street and moved north to Aberdeen on a free transfer. His move to Pittodrie saw him blossom into the commanding number 10 at the heart of one of the most successful teams the Dons have ever seen. He unfortunately missed Aberdeen’s legendary win over Real Madrid in the Cup Winners Cup Final with a fractured ankle. Despite this he was an integral part of the team which won the Premier League titles in 79-80, 83-84 and 84-85, the Scottish Cup in 82,83 and 84. He was recognised by Scotland at Under 21 level twice, first in 1981 v Denmark and as an overaged player against Yugoslavia in 1984. He was transferred to Rangers for £125,000 in May 1985 and made 23 appearances as the Gers finished a disappointing 5th. The Souness revolution numbered the end of his Ibrox career, he moved down the M8 with a loan spell to first club St Mirren, followed by a permanent move to Hibernian. He moved to England in 1988 and enjoyed spells at Shrewsbury Town (1988-89), Hull City (1988) and Birmingham City (1989-91). Dougie rarely featured during the course of his one season at Firhill, 1991-92 – a promotion-winning season for the club. He was sent off in the opening league match at Cappielow and he departed Firhill upon the conclusion of the season. He is best remembered during his time at Firhill for his part in an incident during a reserve league west game with Celtic at Tinto Park, Benburb that saw one time Scotland midfielder Peter Grant sent off. After Firhill he saw service with Cork City, Portadown, Clyde, Elgin City, Alloa Athletic, Albion Rovers (1995-96) and Linlithgow Rose. He was appointed player manager of Kilsyth Rangers (1998-99) followed by a spell at Baillieston Juniors. He has been recently involved in coaching with Clyde.