CELTIC hero Billy McNeill made his last appearance for Celtic in the Scottish Cup final on this day 44 years ago exactly.

The Hoops captain announced his retirement from football after the match in 1975, which marked the Parkhead team's seventh successive appearance in the final.

READ MORE: Billy McNeill posters wrecked by vile vandals hours before funeral in Glasgow

Today, the world of football says farewell to the Lisbon Lion with thousands expected to line the streets of Glasgow for his funeral

The European Cup-winning captain sadly passed away last month sending the footballing world into mourning. 

READ MORE: Glasgow set to bid final farewell to Lisbon Lions legend

Celtic won the match against Airdrieonians 3-1 with two goals from Paul Wilson and a strike from Pat McCluskey.