Dane Murray
Dane Murray (born 26 June 2003) is a Scottish professional footballer who plays as a defender for Scottish Premiership club Celtic.[1]
Club career
Murray's footballing journey began by being scouted by Celtic as a six-year-old and steadily progressed through their youth academy. In June 2019, Murray signed his first professional contract with Celtic
Murray’s senior debut came on July 20, 2021, during a UEFA Champions League qualifier against FC Midtjylland. At just 18 years old, he was introduced as a substitute in the 1-1 draw.[2] Murray was entrusted with a starting position in the return leg on July 28, 2021, playing the full 120 minutes in a match that concluded with a 2-1 extra-time defeat for Celtic.[3]
To continue his development and provide regular first-team experience, Murray was loaned to Scottish Championship side, Queen’s Park for the 2024-2025 season. He made his debut for the club in August 2024 and quickly established himself as a key figure in their defense. Over the course of his loan spell, Murray amassed 20 appearances and an assist across all competitions.[4]
In January 2025, Celtic exercised a recall clause, bringing Murray back to the club. This decision was influenced by squad dynamics, notably the anticipated loan departure of fellow defender Stephen Welsh to KV Mechelen.[5]
International career
Murray has represented Scotland at various youth levels.
Murray currently represents Scotland U21.
Playing style
Standing at 1.93 meters, Murray is a left-sided center-back known for his composure on the ball and tactical awareness. His height and physical presence make him a formidable opponent in aerial duels, while his ability to read the game contributes to effective defensive positioning.
Career statistics
Club
- As of 8 February 2025[6]
| Club | Season | League | Scottish Cup | League Cup | Other | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Celtic | 2021–22[7] | Scottish Premiership | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2[a] | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| 2024–25 | Scottish Premiership | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1[a] | 0 | 2 | 0 | |
| Total | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 0 | ||
| Queen's Park (loan) | 2024–25 | Scottish Championship | 18 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1[b] | 0 | 20 | 0 |
| Career total | 18 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 24 | 0 | ||
- ^ a b Appearances in UEFA Champions League
- ^ Appearance in Scottish Challenge Cup
References
- ^ Dane Murray excited for more after experiencing first-team training, Celtic FC, 7 April 2021
- ^ "Champions League qualifying: Celtic held by Midtjylland in Postecoglou's first game". BBC Sport. Retrieved 22 March 2025.
- ^ "Midtjylland 2-1 Celtic (agg 3-2): Postecoglou's side undone in extra time". BBC Sport. 27 July 2021. Retrieved 22 March 2025.
- ^ Cairns, Ian (9 August 2024). "Dane Murray on loan from Celtic". Queen's Park Football Club. Retrieved 22 March 2025.
- ^ McGilvray, Andy (30 December 2024). "Celtic star 'heading out on loan move' as Queen's Park kid set to return". Daily Record. Retrieved 22 March 2025.
- ^ "D. Murray". Soccerway. Retrieved 30 July 2021.
- ^ "Games played by Dane Murray in 2021/2022". Soccerbase. Centurycomm. Retrieved 30 July 2021.