After a playing career cut-short by injury, Craig discovered a passion for coaching and education. He started his management career in the Scottish Football League with Clyde before joining the Scottish Football Association as a coach in support of the various national teams in 1986. He was appointed Scotland manager in 1993 and to this day, Craig holds the record as the longest-serving manager of the Scottish Men’s National Team, having led his countrymen for eight years. Craig joined the LMA in 2002, when he was appointed as manager of Preston North End. Further managerial spells at Motherwell and Aberdeen followed, before Craig retired from management but continued to work in football through various strategic roles in Scotland and Europe.
Paying tribute to Craig, LMA Executive Board Member Sir Alex Ferguson CBE said: “It was with great sadness to hear of the passing of Craig Brown, a thoroughly wonderful man and my thoughts are with his family. Craig and I had been friends since Scotland Schools Team in 1957/58, with Craig as Captain. When I was given the honour of managing Scotland at the World Cup Finals in Mexico there was one man I had to take, for all his attributes and knowledge, that was Craig. He had a great career as a manager of several clubs but his service for his country stands out. In an industry that questions a man’s capabilities, Craig never wavered in that situation, he always kept his head and his composure. Well done Broon!”
LMA Chairman Howard Wilkinson said: “You couldn’t help but like Craig. He was great fun, he always had a story or comment to share but his modesty and willingness to help when called upon made him such a good friend. As a professional, he was a great coach educator and proper lover of football. He was very intelligent, like a football professor, but would never try to impress you with his knowledge of the game. He will be missed greatly and our thought are with Craig’s family and friends at this time.”
LMA Chief Executive Richard Bevan OBE added: "Craig was an immensely popular member of the LMA, who would often take the time to share his vast experience with his peers and go out of his way to show his support for the association. Despite retiring from management in 2013, he has continued to serve the game in Scotland and across Europe with his presence and insight. Craig was highly respected throughout Europe as a thoughtful manager and in the latter part of his career, an advisor and trusted confidant to many people and organisations. Today we have lost a valued member and friend, and the LMA’s condolences are with Craig’s family and friends.”
