John Govan (16 January 1923 – 17 February 1999) was a Scottish footballer, who played for Hibernian and Ayr United. Govan, who was a key part of the successful post-war Hibs side, was capped six times by Scotland.

Govan grew up in Larkhall, a Lanarkshire town noted for its support of Rangers. He played for the local junior club Larkhall Thistle until he was signed by Hibernian in 1941. This move upset the people in Larkhall, who burned his Hibs training kit. Govan was a full-back, but had an attacking style that was ahead of its time.

Jock Govan

Govan broke into the Hibs first team in 1943, eventually forming a partnership with Davie Shaw. This partnership formed the basis of Hibs success after the Second World War, as they won the league championship in 1948. Although Shaw was eventually replaced due to age and injury, Govan continued to enjoy success with Hibs, winning the league again in 1951 and 1952. He was transferred to Ayr United in 1954, where he finished his playing career.

Jock Govan

After retiring as a football player, Govan worked as a mining engineer and played lawn bowls in Midlothian. He died in Leith on 17 February 1999, at the age of 76, and was survived by his wife and two children.

Jock Govan

References

External links

Jock Govan, www.ihibs.co.uk

1923 births

1999 deaths

Footballers from Larkhall

Men's association football fullbacks

Scottish men's footballers

Scotland men's international footballers

Scottish Football League players

Scottish Junior Football Association players

Hibernian F.C. players

Ayr United F.C. players

Larkhall Thistle F.C. players

Scottish Football League representative players