Tom Lang pens emotion goodbye as back-to-back SPFL title-winning defender departs Falkirk
Tom Lang pens emotion goodbye as back-to-back SPFL title-winning defender departs Falkirk.
One of Falkirk’s back-to-back SPFL title-winning heroes has departed the club - ending a memorable three-year spell with John McGlynn’s team.
Tom Lang moves on from the Bairns a legend having joined the club in the summer of 2023 during manager McGlynn’s rebuild and restructure of the football department on the back of Falkirk’s worst-ever competitive campaign.
Former Raith Rovers centre-back Lang, now 29, joined the club on a mid-June Thursday that will go down as one of the most consequential days in the club’s history. A trio of players signed for Falkirk that day - with the other two being Calvin Miller and Brad Spencer.
Lang enjoyed a stunning first season with the Bairns. He played a key role in the invincible Scottish League One title victory, starting and not missing a minute of the opening 26 league fixtures. A stunning goal against Annan Athletic at Galabank was a memorable moment.
Tom Lang leaves a Falkirk legend
Injuries caught up with the defender - but he made a perfect and much-needed return for the Scottish Championship run-in the following season. He came back for a late January trip to Raith Rovers and helped secure a 2-0 win. Lang’s return coincided with a rack of much-needed wins and clean sheets. In the end, Falkirk got back-to-back titles over the line, and the centre-back even got on the for the final minute of the Hamilton Accies comeback win that sealed promotion in style on the final night.
Last season, with the Bairns back in the top flight, Lang eventually went out on loan to second-tier Arbroath for the second half of the campaign. Injuries again played a part in what was a frustrating season, and that carried on over the summer to the start of this term.
It wasn’t just on the pitch that Lang made an impact. He was a fans’ favourite off it for good reason. He was the right player at the right time for Falkirk.
Penning an emotional message to the Falkirk support on social media, Lang said: “After just over three years, my time at Falkirk FC has come to an end. To be part of an Invincible season and win back-to-back league titles is something I'll always be incredibly proud of. The memories made along the way will stay with me for the rest of my life.
“There have also been some really tough moments personally, but those experiences have taught me a lot and made me appreciate the good times even more. Most importantly, I've met so many brilliant people during my time at the club - my teammates, all the staff, the supporters and the people behind the scenes. I'm grateful to every one of you who has supported me along the way. Falkirk is a special club and one I'll always look out for and support. Thank you for everything.”