PLAYER PROFILE

Stephen McManus

Position: Defence

Height: 6'2

Weight: 13st 0lbs

Date of Birth: 1982-09-10 Lanark

Stephen McManus

Stephen McManus is a product of Celtic's youth academy and made his debut for Martin O'Neill during the 2003/04 season. Under Gordon Strachan he has become an integral first team player.

With competition fierce for defensive starting slots at Celtic, MacManus was forced to wait for his chance. However, in 2005/6 he really cemented his place in the team as Gordon Strachan showed considerable faith in him. A key member of the title winning squad, his tough tackling in defensive was matched by surprising ability going forward and he ended the season with 8 goals.

Similarly high was his return of 10 yellow cards, but his ability to play in a variety of positions across the backline should ensure a long career in the green and white.

In 2006/07 he became Celtic's vice-captain and also made his Scotland debut in October 2006, becoming an important member of the squad under Alex McLeish as well as continuing to thrive with the Bhoys.

He continued this form in 2007/08 and is one of the Hoops' most important players.