Paul Jonquin is a name that resonates deeply with Airdrie fans, a name that evokes memories of hard defensive work, blistering overlapping runs, and a right boot capable of thundering penalties past goalkeepers.

PART ONE

Born on October 16, 1943, Paul Jonquin’s surname hinted at his Belgian heritage, yet his footballing roots were firmly planted in Scotland. He joined Airdrie in October 1961 from Edinburgh Athletic, a promising yet unheralded part-timer whose early days at Broomfield Park were balanced with a career as a photographer.

Making his debut on February 10, 1962 in a comfortable 4-2 Scottish First Division victory against Hibernian at Broomfield, Jonquin quickly endeared himself to the Airdrieonians faithful. The 18-year-old was immediately entrusted by manager Willie Steel, retaining his place for the remainder of the season as The Diamonds fought tooth and nail to preserve their First Division status. Airdrie’s survival may have been unremarkable on the surface, but for Jonquin, it marked the start of a long and decorated association with the club.

Moreover, he was not just a reliable full-back; he was an ever-present force in Airdrie’s defensive line. His fitness levels were the stuff of legend, his commitment unwavering, and his ability to read the game ensured he was an asset on either flank. This was exemplified in his extraordinary run of 196 consecutive appearances between April 1967 and September 1971—a period that saw Airdrie establish themselves in the top-flight.

What’s more, Jonquin’s role evolved as the years went by. Initially a no-nonsense defender, he grew into an attacking full-back, comfortable bombing forward and delivering dangerous crosses into the box. He also became a set-piece specialist, particularly from the penalty spot, where his blend of accuracy and sheer power made him one of the club’s most reliable goal scorers from twelve yards. Though his first goal did not arrive until his seventh season, he would go on to notch 46 in total, a remarkable tally for a defender.

Jonquin was a mainstay in an Airdrie side that enjoyed several notable achievements. He was part of the squad that won promotion in 1965-66 as runners-up to Ayr United, a campaign that laid the foundations for a golden period in the club’s history. He featured in the team that reached the League Cup semi-final in 1966-67, pushing Celtic all the way before bowing out. Then, in the 1970-71 Scottish Cup Semi-Final, he played a crucial role as Airdrie held Celtic to a thrilling 3-3 draw on May 5, only to lose the replay 2-0 two days later.

PART TWO

Similarly, his contributions were not limited to domestic competitions. Jonquin played a starring role in Airdrie’s two-year adventure in the Texaco Cup, where they recorded famous victories over English opposition, including Nottingham Forest, Manchester City, and Huddersfield Town. The pinnacle of this run came in 1972 when Airdrie reached the final, only to fall short against Brian Clough’s Derby County, who would go on to win the English league title that same season. That Airdrie could compete against—and often overcome—such illustrious opposition was a testament to the quality of the team, and Jonquin was at the heart of it all.

Yet, no moment was more significant than the 1975 Scottish Cup Final. On May 3, in front of a raucous crowd of 75,457 at Hampden Park, Airdrie found themselves on the grandest stage, facing a Celtic side stacked with talent. The Diamonds held their own for much of the contest, even equalising through former Carluke Rovers winger Kevin McCann in the first half of the encounter. However, a brace from Scotland international Paul Wilson and a George McCluskey penalty sealed a 3-1 victory for the Parkhead side, handing Billy McNeill one final triumph before his retirement. Despite the disappointment, Jonquin’s performances throughout the tournament had been excellent, and his leadership on the day was instrumental in Airdrie’s valiant effort.

In addition, he added silverware to his collection with Lanarkshire Cup victories and, most notably, the Spring Cup in 1976—the only time the competition was ever held. Though it may not have been the most prestigious of trophies, it was another reminder of Airdrie’s standing in Scottish football during that era.

However, all good things must come to an end, and Jonquin’s time as a player concluded in May 1979 with a 1-0 win over Dumbarton at Boghead. His departure was not just the exit of a veteran defender; it was the closing of a chapter in Airdrie’s history. He had given everything to his side, and the fans recognised as much.

Still, his bond with Airdrie did not end there. In May 1994, he returned to Broomfield Park alongside a host of club legends, taking part in a farewell event as they bid adieu to their beloved old ground. Tragically, his life was cut short at just 52, a mere 15 months after that final appearance, but his contributions were formally recognised when he was inducted into the Airdrieonians Hall of Fame in its inaugural year of 2002.