SWOS ECE 95/96
SWOS ECE 95/96

JIM LEIGHTON
JIM LEIGHTON
JIM LEIGHTON
Scotland flag
Number
#1
Nationality
Scotland
Team
SCOTLAND (Europe)
Coach
CRAIG BROWN
Position
G (Goalkeeper)
Passing (P) Shooting (V) Heading (H) Tackling (T) Control (C) Speed (S) Finishing (F) Total Bargain Value
£1.1M

Name: Jim Leighton

Nationality: Scotland

Position: Goalkeeper

Date of Birth: July 24, 1958

Place of Birth: Dundee, Scotland

Club Career (selected):

  • 1977–1989: Aberdeen — Made over 300 appearances; key member of Alex Ferguson’s successful Aberdeen side, winning multiple domestic trophies and the 1983 European Cup Winners' Cup.
  • 1989–1990: Manchester United — Transferred for a British record fee for a goalkeeper; limited success and returned to Scotland after one season.
  • 1990–1995: Hibernian — Regular first-team goalkeeper with several seasons of steady performances.
  • 1995–1998: Dundee (and loan spells) — Continued playing in Scottish leagues; later had short spells with other clubs including Hearts and Peterhead.
  • Later years included brief appearances and coaching roles before retiring from playing.

International Career (Scotland):

  • Caps: 91 appearances for the Scotland national team (1979–1993).
  • Tournaments: Participated in multiple major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cups of 1982, 1986 and 1990, and UEFA Euro 1992.
  • Notable: Long-serving and highly respected Scotland goalkeeper, known for shot-stopping and longevity at international level.

Honours & Achievements (selected):

  • European Cup Winners' Cup: 1982–83 (with Aberdeen)
  • UEFA Super Cup: 1983 (with Aberdeen)
  • Scottish League titles and multiple Scottish Cup victories with Aberdeen
  • Inducted into various halls of fame/recognition for contributions to Scottish football

After football: Following retirement from playing, Leighton has been involved in coaching and community activities; he remains a celebrated figure in Scottish football history for his achievements with Aberdeen and the national team.