Tony Fitzpatrick paid tribute to Billy McNeill following the passing of the Scottish football legend last night.
McNeill played 790 times for Celtic between 1957 & 1975 - captaining the side to their European Cup triumph in 1967 - and was also capped 29 times for Scotland.
After hanging up his boots, McNeill managed Clyde, Aberdeen, Celtic (twice), Manchester City and Aston Villa.
Saints chief executive Tony Fitzpatrick knew McNeill well and paid tribute to the man known as 'Cesar'.
Tony said: "I have incredible memories of Billy and I'm so proud to say he tried to sign me as a player. As a man he was an absolute gentleman and a great leader of men. I was in his company quite a lot and he really was an incredible man.
"Even though we knew he was unwell you think guys like Billy McNeill are immortal. It's a huge shock to your system when you hear news like this.
"We've had incredible players over the years in Scottish football such as Kenny Dalglish, David Cooper etc. But I think Billy, along with Sir Alex Ferguson, is the biggest name ever in Scottish football. Billy McNeill is a name that everybody will remember forever. He was a proper gentleman and everything you wanted in a hero.
"I know every director, the players, the staff and supporters would pass on our wishes to Billy's family. It's such a sad loss."
