Craig Sinclair Gordon is a Scottish professional football goalkeeper born on 31 December 1982 in Edinburgh. He rose to prominence in Scottish domestic football before moving to England and later returning to Scotland. Gordon is widely recognized for his shot‑stopping, penalty saves and leadership on the pitch, and he has been a long‑serving member of the Scotland national team.

Club career overview

Gordon began his senior career with Heart of Midlothian where his performances earned him interest beyond Scotland. He transferred to Sunderland, where a severe knee injury interrupted his time in English football and sidelined him for an extended period. After recovering, he returned to Scottish club football and played a prominent role at a major Glasgow club, winning multiple domestic trophies and reestablishing himself as one of the leading goalkeepers in the Scottish Premiership. Later in his career he also returned to the club where he first made his name.

International career

Gordon has been a regular selection for the Scotland senior squad across many years. He has served as a first‑choice goalkeeper at times and has captained the side on occasions. His consistent club form and experience underpinned a long international presence and he is regarded as one of Scotland's most notable goalkeepers of his generation.

Playing style and attributes

Known for quick reflexes and reliable handling, Gordon combines traditional shot‑stopping ability with strong penalty‑saving instincts. He is comfortable commanding his penalty area and organizing a defence, and his distribution with both hands and feet helped him adapt to modern tactical demands on goalkeepers.

Achievements, setbacks and legacy

Gordon's career has featured domestic titles and cup successes during his time with a leading Scottish club, alongside individual recognition at various points. His long rehabilitation from a major knee injury and subsequent return to high‑level football are often cited as examples of resilience. He remains widely respected for his longevity, leadership and influence on younger goalkeepers in Scotland.

  • Key traits: reflexes, shot‑stopping, penalty saves, leadership
  • Notable aspects: breakthrough at Hearts, spell in England, major comeback, success in Scottish domestic competitions