A Greenock-born Gothenburg great who famously won the European Cup Winners’ Cup with Aberdeen is to be honoured by Inverclyde Council.

John McMaster, who grew up in Gibshill and still lives locally, was part of the iconic Pittodrie team that beat the mighty Real Madrid in the 1983 final.

A request was made by Provost Drew McKenzie for the council to acknowledge the former footballer on the 40^th anniversary of that famous win this year at a meeting of the council and it was unanimously agreed.

As well as lifting a major European trophy under the guidance of legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson, McMaster also won league titles and cups at Aberdeen, is in the club’s hall of fame, and also played with hometown club Greenock Morton, as well as serving as assistant manager at Cappielow.

Provost McKenzie said: “John McMaster is a classic case of local boy done good.

“He played for Aberdeen under the auspices of Sir Alex Ferguson and won the European Cup Winners’ Cup forty years ago and those of a certain age will remember that remarkable night in Gothenburg.

“John finished his career at Greenock Morton and was also assistant manager. It’s only right that we recognise John’s incredible achievements throughout his career in football and for being an ambassador for Greenock and Inverclyde.”

The request was unanimously agreed. The full text of the request is as follows:

That Inverclyde Council acknowledges the achievements of Mr John McMaster in his long and illustrious football career, this being the fortieth anniversary year of Aberdeen beating Real Madrid in the European Cup Winners Cup final. That it also acknowledges his service to Greenock Morton Football Club and commends him for the honours that he has brought and for his continual promotion of Inverclyde.

Consideration will now be given as to how best to acknowledge McMaster formally.