Frank Connor dies aged 86 as former Celtic caretaker boss passes away after short illness

Former Raith Rovers manager and Celtic caretaker boss Frank Connor has died aged 86.

The ex-goalie from Airdrie passed away on Thursday morning following a short illness.

The Stark's Park club, where he managed for four years, confirmed the news in a club statement.

It read: “R aith Rovers FC were saddened to learn of the passing at 09.30 this morning of former Rovers manager Frank Connor, after being contacted by his eldest son Tom today.

“Frank celebrated his 86th birthday last month, and was residing in Croftbank House Nursing Home, Uddingston.“

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"After a short illness, Frank deteriorated overnight and passed away this morning. He is survived by his loving wife Margaret, 7 children, several grandchildren and a great grandson.”

Connor played for Celtic between 1961 and 1962 before returning to the club as part of manager David Hay's backroom staff in 1983.

Another spell coaching under Liam Brady followed in 1993, and Connor took caretaker charge of the team for four matches following Brady's departure.

Connor also played for St Mirren, Portadown, Derry City, Albion Rovers and Cowdenbeath.

As well as coaching at Celtic, he was assistant at Hearts, Morton and Motherwell, with spells as manager at