2001 Celtic Away – Henrik Larsson #9

Season Overview

The 2001–02 season was another dominant domestic campaign for Celtic FC under legendary manager Martin O’Neill. Building on the success of the previous year, Celtic established themselves as the strongest side in Scotland through attacking intensity, physical dominance, and ruthless consistency.

In the Scottish Premier League, Celtic retained the title in emphatic fashion, finishing as champions with one of the league’s most prolific attacks. They also won the Scottish Cup, defeating Rangers in the final to secure a domestic double and further cement their superiority during this era.

In Europe, Celtic competed in the UEFA Champions League, reaching the group stage and delivering several memorable performances at Celtic Park. Although they did not progress deep into the tournament, the campaign reinforced Celtic’s growing reputation as a difficult side to face on the European stage.

The 2001–02 Celtic away kit, produced by Umbro, was one of the most distinctive designs of the early 2000s. Featuring a bold black base with luminous green detailing and horizontal striping, the shirt broke from traditional Celtic aesthetics while still maintaining strong club identity. Today, it is regarded as an iconic vintage football shirt from one of the club’s modern golden periods.

Player’s Impact – Henrik Larsson

The 2001–02 season was another extraordinary year for Henrik Larsson, who continued to establish himself as one of the greatest players in Celtic history. Operating at the peak of his powers, Larsson combined elite finishing with relentless movement, intelligence, and leadership.

Larsson delivered a phenomenal campaign, scoring over 50 goals in all competitions, including 35 league goals, finishing as both Celtic’s top scorer and the dominant attacking force in Scottish football. Operating primarily as a mobile central striker, he constantly drifted into space, exploited defensive gaps, and combined clinical finishing with creative link-up play.

Beyond goals, Larsson’s work ethic and tactical awareness elevated the entire team. He pressed defenders aggressively, created opportunities for strike partners and midfield runners, and consistently delivered in high-pressure matches — particularly against Rangers and in European competition.

This season further cemented Larsson’s legendary status at Celtic. By this point, he was not simply the team’s best player, but the symbol of Martin O’Neill’s powerful and fearless Celtic side.

Full Squad List (Celtic – 2001–02 Season)

Manager: Martin O’Neill

Goalkeepers:
Rab Douglas, Magnus Hedman

Defenders:
Johan Mjällby, Bobo Baldé, Joos Valgaeren, Jackie McNamara, Didier Agathe, Alan Thompson

Midfielders:
Stiliyan Petrov, Neil Lennon (captain), Paul Lambert, Lubomír Moravčík, Shaun Maloney

Forwards:
Henrik Larsson, Chris Sutton, John Hartson, Craig Beattie