Pair of Bob Shankly letters

A pair of letters written to a Mr William McKenzie from Bob Shankly in November and December 1964 regarding Mr McKenzie, as manager of Douglas Amateurs recommending a player named John Wilkie.

As Williams son Bill, who donated the letters to the Historical Trust said, “My father William McKenzie managed Douglas Amateurs at this time and recommended one of his players John Wilkie to Dundee FC as he was aware of other teams interested in this player.

My father of course was a big Dundee fan, ne corresponded by letter to Dundee manager Bob Shankly and received two replies written by the great man himself.

My father would have been chuffed to learn that these letters are of interest to Dundee supporters 60 years on”.

1st Letter

William McKenzie Esq,                                       November 20th

Secy Douglas Athletic FC

Dear Sir,

Many thanks for your letter this morning, regarding the outside left of your team, whom you feel has the making of a good player, and who has been watched by English representatives.

In mind of your recommendation, I could perhaps suggest that you allow the boy to train at Dens Park on Thursday evenings, when we cater to some extent for such boys. Boys whom we feel have the potential.

Let me know how you feel about the suggestion, and if the boy would be interested.

Thanks again & best wishes,

Yours sincerely,

Bob Shankly.

2nd Letter

William McKenzie Esq.                                                           1st December

Dear Sir,

Pleased to hear that your player John Wilkie is willing to train at Dens Park on Thursday evenings, as suggested.

Would you kindly have him report to Dens Park on Thursday first, around 6pm, and if he has training gear of his own to bring it with him.

Tell him to ask for Gerry Follon, who is in charge of the Thursday night sessions.

Thanks for the interest taken, and I hope the boy will benefit from being with us.

Yours sincerely,

Bob Shankly.

John Carlin Wilkie 1st July 1947- 27th October 2023.