Steven Craig is a Scottish retired professional footballer whose career reflects endurance, adaptability, and long-term commitment to the sport. Known for his fearless forward play and physical resilience, he built a reputation across Scotland and England before transitioning into coaching. Today, he serves as assistant manager of Gala Fairydean Rovers, continuing a lifelong dedication to football. From his early development as the son of Scottish striker Joe Craig to his rise through multiple leagues and clubs, Craig’s story is one of grit, determination, and steady success within the world of professional sport.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven Craig |
| Age | 44 |
| Date of Birth | 5 February 1981 |
| Place of Birth | Blackburn, England |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in |
| Father | Joe Craig, former Celtic and Partick Thistle striker |
| Position (Former) | Striker |
| Current Role | Assistant Manager, Gala Fairydean Rovers |
| Net Worth (2025) | £500,000–£700,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Football career, coaching, development programmes |
| Youth Club | Raith Rovers |
| Clubs Played For | Falkirk, Motherwell, Aberdeen, Dundee, Livingston, Ross County, Partick Thistle, Wycombe Wanderers, Dumbarton, Forfar Athletic |
| Spouse | Lesley |
Early Life & Family Background of Steven Craig
Steven Craig was born in Blackburn, Lancashire, at a time when his father Joe Craig was playing for Blackburn Rovers. Despite his English birthplace, Steven was raised within a distinctly Scottish footballing culture. Growing up in a household led by a professional athlete meant that football became a natural part of his early identity. His father’s achievements with Celtic and the Scotland national team were influential, instilling ambition and professionalism from the start.
Craig’s early experiences were shaped by matchdays, training insight, and discussions about tactics that most young players never hear until much later in life. This exposure laid the groundwork for his disciplined mindset and competitive nature.
Childhood Influence & Introduction to Football
Surrounded by football’s atmosphere, Steven developed a passion for the sport early on. He frequently attended training sessions with his father, gaining an appreciation for the commitment required to play at professional level. By the time he joined organised youth football, he already possessed foundational understanding of movement, discipline, and football intelligence.
His supportive and sports-oriented family encouraged him to cultivate his talent, and his natural ability was quickly noticeable among peers.
Youth Career at Raith Rovers
Steven Craig’s earliest structured football development took place at Raith Rovers, where he joined the youth academy. The environment allowed him to build the key traits he later became known for: physicality, direct attacking play, and strong finishing ability. Raith Rovers’ training helped him refine his technique and grow comfortable in competitive fixtures.
While he did not break through into the senior squad at Raith Rovers, the academy years were essential to Craig’s journey. They built the platform that would later propel him into Scotland’s professional ranks.
Steven Craig’s Transition to Senior Football
After leaving Raith Rovers in 2000, Craig briefly joined Broxburn Athletic, making a single appearance. Although short, the experience of senior football helped him adjust to the demands of adult competition, including increased physical pressure and higher tactical expectations. His ability to adapt quickly confirmed that he was ready for professional opportunities.
This period marked the shift from youth prospect to emerging senior player.
Professional Debut with Falkirk
Craig’s major career breakthrough came when he signed with Falkirk on a short-term three-month contract. Fate aligned perfectly: he scored on his debut on 30 September 2000 against Livingston, immediately proving his value. His impact earned him a three-year contract, firmly establishing him at the club.
During his time with Falkirk, Craig displayed notable consistency and showed promise as a rising striker. His powerful style and ability to link play made him an asset, and his performances began drawing attention from clubs in the Scottish Premier League.
Move to Motherwell & Premier League Exposure
In January 2003, Craig stepped into the Scottish Premier League after signing with Motherwell. He made his debut the same month and netted his first goal just weeks later. His physical presence and direct attacking approach fit well with Motherwell’s style, earning him a contract extension.
Playing in the top tier exposed Craig to higher levels of competition, challenging him to elevate his performance. His time with Motherwell helped sharpen his strategic awareness, hold-up play, and finishing abilities.
Aberdeen & A New Challenge
On 12 May 2004, Craig signed a pre-contract agreement with Aberdeen, joining the club that summer. He made his debut in the opening match of the 2004–05 season against Rangers. He later scored against Berwick Rangers and twice against Livingston, showcasing his ability to deliver in key matches.
Despite early promise, Craig’s relationship with the club shifted as managerial preferences changed under Jimmy Calderwood. This eventually led to reduced playing time and a search for new opportunities. He trialled with Sint-Truiden in Belgium and Bradford City before mutually parting ways with Aberdeen at the end of the 2005 summer window.
Dundee, Livingston & Career Stability
Craig signed with Dundee in September 2005, spending a season with the club before moving to Livingston in June 2006. These years offered him stability and regular playtime, helping him regain rhythm and confidence. At Livingston, Craig proved his reliability, contributing through determined forward play and consistent performances.
His time in the Scottish First Division added to his experience and reinforced his reputation as a hardworking striker capable of influencing games.
Rise with Ross County
One of the most defining chapters of Craig’s career began when he signed for Ross County on 6 May 2008. Here, he achieved several career highlights:
• scoring in Ross County’s historic 2–0 win over Celtic in the 2009–10 Scottish Cup semi-final
• helping the team reach the Scottish Cup final
• contributing to Challenge Cup success
• playing a role in their promotion to the Scottish top-flight during the 2011–12 campaign
At Ross County, Craig grew into a respected senior figure and became central to the squad’s resilience and collective spirit. His goal in the famous semi-final win over Celtic remains one of the club’s most celebrated cup moments.
Move to Partick Thistle
Craig moved to Partick Thistle on loan in August 2012, later signing permanently in January 2013. He played an important role in Thistle’s 2012–13 Scottish First Division title win, collecting his second consecutive winners’ medal. His leadership, experience, and technical contributions helped the club secure promotion.
Despite his contributions, he was released at the end of the season as the club transitioned into a new squad structure.
Wycombe Wanderers & English Football Journey
Steven Craig joined Wycombe Wanderers in July 2013. His most significant achievement came on 3 May 2014, when he scored Wycombe’s second goal in a 3–0 win over Torquay United, securing the club’s safety in League Two on the final day of the season.
His strong presence, dressing room leadership, and ability to perform under pressure earned him a contract extension. Craig’s time in England broadened his experience and showcased his reliability in difficult fixtures.
Dumbarton, Forfar Athletic & Final Playing Years
Craig returned to Scotland in July 2015, signing for Dumbarton. He scored his first goal for the club just minutes after coming on as a substitute against Hibernian. However, his spell was short-lived, and he left the club after six months.
In February 2016, he signed with Forfar Athletic, where he played until the end of the season, marking the closing chapter of his professional playing career.
Transition to Coaching
After retiring, Craig embraced football development and coaching roles. He became involved in youth development as Football Development Lead at Broxburn United Sports Club and also worked with Planet Soccer. His coaching style reflects his playing philosophy: disciplined, direct, and team-orientated.
His commitment to grassroots development highlights a passion for nurturing future generations of footballers.
Assistant Manager at Gala Fairydean Rovers
In January 2022, Steven Craig joined Gala Fairydean Rovers as assistant manager to Martin Scott. His leadership, tactical understanding, and years of playing experience have enabled him to guide players through advanced training routines and competitive match preparation.
This role marks the beginning of a promising coaching career that continues to grow.
Steven Craig’s Lifestyle
Craig maintains a grounded lifestyle, shaped by discipline from his years in professional sport. Unlike high-profile footballers, he prefers a private, low-key existence. He remains close to Scotland’s footballing community and focuses much of his time on coaching, mentoring, and personal fitness.
Craig’s lifestyle reflects commitment, family values, and passion for sport rather than celebrity or extravagance.
Steven Craig’s Family & Football Legacy
His father, Joe Craig, remains one of the biggest influences in Steven’s life. Joe’s achievements with Celtic and Scotland provided a strong example of professionalism. Although Steven keeps his personal life private, his close family connection to football shaped his ethos and ambition.
This father-and-son legacy has played a key role in their reputation within Scottish football.
Steven Craig’s Net Worth
Steven Craig’s estimated net worth in 2025 ranges between £500,000 and £700,000. His wealth comes from:
• professional football contracts across Scotland and England
• performance bonuses and seasonal earnings
• coaching and development roles
• long-term involvement in club programmes
Craig’s financial approach mirrors his personality: stable, responsible, and grounded in hard work rather than lavish spending.
Success Story & Legacy
From Raith Rovers youth prospect to assistant manager, Craig’s football journey is defined by resilience. He never relied on flash, fame, or headlines. Instead, his legacy comes from:
• over 400 career appearances
• 82 professional goals
• cup success with Ross County
• multiple promotions
• survival-saving contributions at Wycombe
• leadership roles across clubs
• mentoring future talent
His career stands as an example of steady, long-term success founded on perseverance and love for the game.
Social Media Presence
Steven Craig keeps a minimal social media presence, maintaining a private and grounded lifestyle. His public engagement revolves primarily around football programmes, community involvement, and coaching initiatives rather than personal publicity.
Final Thoughts
Steven Craig’s football journey is a testament to persistence, professionalism, and genuine love for the game. While he never sought the spotlight or celebrity status, his impact across Scottish and English football has been both meaningful and lasting. From scoring decisive goals to guiding young players as a coach, Craig has built a career defined by hard work rather than headlines. His transition from striker to assistant manager reflects natural leadership, and his ongoing dedication to youth development shows a commitment to giving back to the sport that shaped his life. Steven Craig’s legacy is one built on discipline, character, and consistent success, proving that influence in football is not measured only by fame, but by the lives and careers shaped along the way.
FAQs
1. What is Steven Craig’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is between £500,000 and £700,000.
2. What position did Steven Craig play?
He played as a striker throughout his professional career.
3. Who is Steven Craig’s father?
His father is Joe Craig, former Celtic and Scotland striker.
4. What is Steven Craig doing now?
He is the assistant manager of Gala Fairydean Rovers.
5. How many clubs did Steven Craig play for?
He played for more than ten professional clubs across Scotland and England.