John Browning (born 29 November 1888, Dumbarton – ?) was a Scottish footballer who played for Celtic. He is remembered for his bribery charges in the early part of the 20th century. He played for local clubs Bonhill Hibs, Vale of Leven, and Dumbarton Harp before arriving at Parkhead in 1912.

Browning made his league debut for Celtic in a 1-0 victory over Third Lanark at Cathkin Park on 2 November 1912. He was a winger who played with a straightforward, forceful attacking flair which led to plenty of goals. In seven years with Celtic he managed to score a goal every three game, including 15 from 38 league matches during the 1914-15 season.

On 28 February 1914, he made his first and only appearance for Scotland, in a goalless draw against Wales at Celtic Park. Browning represented the Scottish League twice and was also selected to play for Glasgow against Sheffield in 1914. He moved to Chelsea in June 1919 where he made just five appearances before signing for Vale of Leven in June 1920, and then Dumbarton the in September 1921.

In 1924, he and Archie Kyle, a former Rangers player, were found guilty of attempting to bribe Bo'ness player Peter Brown in a public house in Glasgow's Dundass Street: both men were sentenced to 60 days' hard labour.

[edit] References

• Celtic: A complete record 1888-1992 by Paul Lunney (ISBN 1-873626-27-4)