Fearless and inspirational Scottish midfielder whose indomitable spirit and courage made him one of the greatest players in Tottenham's history.
David Craig Mackay was born in Edinburgh on 14 November 1934. He began at Hearts, winning the Scottish league title, before joining Tottenham in 1959. A powerful, courageous midfielder with a ferocious will to win, he was central to the legendary Spurs 'Double' side of 1960-61 — the first team in the 20th century to win the league and FA Cup in the same season. He won three FA Cups and the European Cup Winners' Cup in 1963. Mackay broke his leg twice yet came back stronger each time, earning admiration for his incredible resilience. He was jointly named FWA Footballer of the Year in 1969 alongside Tony Book. He later moved to Derby County and then managed the club, winning the league title in 1975. He earned 22 Scotland caps. Mackay died on 2 March 2015.
Captaining Tottenham to the first English double of the 20th century
He broke his left leg twice in nine months yet came back both times to play at the highest level, demonstrating extraordinary courage and determination.
Did You Know?How They Played
Dynamic box-to-box midfielder with exceptional leadership, tackling ability and passing range
Lasting Impact
Regarded as one of the greatest Scottish players and most inspirational captains in football history
Career Honours
- League Championship 1961
- FA Cup 3x
- European Cup Winners' Cup 1963
- First Division 1961
- FA Cup 1961
- FA Cup 1962
- FA Cup 1967
- UEFA Cup Winners' Cup 1963
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hearts | 1953–1959 | 135 | 23 | #6 |
| Derby County | 1968–1971 | 23 | 9 | #14 |
| Tottenham Hotspur | 1959–1968 | 318 | 51 | #14 |
| Swindon Town | 1971–1972 | 76 | 39 | #14 |
 Scotland | — | 22 | 4 | — |