Hugh Murray

Hugh 'Shug' Murray (born 8 January 1979) is a Scottish retired professional footballer. He came through the youth ranks at St Mirren, where he celebrated his testimonial year in 2007 and eventually broke the club record for appearances. He also had short spells at Partick Thistle, Dumbarton and Clyde.

Club career St Mirren Born in Bellshill, Murray broke into the St Mirren side under Tony Fitzpatrick towards the end of the 1996–97 season. The following season, he soon became an established member of the side. At the end of that season, St Mirren were flirting with relegation to Scottish Second Division (which would have been a financial disaster for the club). The team travelled to face fellow strugglers Stirling Albion and Murray netted a goal in the top corner to win the match.

In the 1999–2000 season, Murray played a major part in the Scottish First Division championship win. One outstanding occasion was in the 8–0 drubbing of Clydebank, who were soon liquidated. Murray ran towards the edge of the 18-yard box to control the ball with his head. He not only did this, but managed to juggle the ball on his head past the defence, then stroke the ball past the keeper.

After a close season spell away from Love Street in 2001, Murray decided to return to Saints once again for the start of the next season and in the 2005–06 season his decision was vindicated when he became the first ever St Mirren player to gain three winners' medals in national competitions at 462 appearances.

Later years On Monday 14 May 2012, Murray signed a two-year deal with Partick Thistle. He was sent off three times for Thistle in one season, twice against Greenock Morton (his boyhood rivals) and the suspensions left him out of favour. Injury and suspension limited his contribution on the park in the second half of the season, and he spent the first part of the 2013–14 season on loan with Championship side Dumbarton.

On 6 January 2014, Murray's contract with Partick Thistle was cancelled. He returned to Dumbarton and signed permanently for the club on 9 January. Murray extended his time with the Sons on 4 June, penning a new 1-year deal. He left the club on 30 December 2014, joining Clyde on a free transfer.

International career Murray was never capped by the Scotland national team but did play seven times at under-21 level.

Career statistics Correct as of December 2016

Honours St Mirren Scottish First Division: 1999–00, 2005–06 Scottish Challenge Cup: 2005

Partick Thistle Scottish First Division: 2012–13