Emma Lawton is a Scottish professional footballer renowned for her adaptability, defensive strength, and leadership. She plays as a right back for Celtic FC in the Scottish Women’s Premier League and is a full Scotland international.
Early Life and Background
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Full Name: Emma Louise Lawton
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Date of Birth: 26 July 2001
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Place of Birth: Wishaw, Scotland
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Raised in: East Kilbride
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Education: BA in Football Coaching and Management (UCFB), UEFA B Licence
Club Career
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Youth: Developed at Celtic Academy before joining Partick Thistle at 15, helping them gain promotion to SWPL-2.
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Manchester City (2019–2022): Joined the English club’s development squad, with her spell affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Motherwell (2022–2023): Returned to Scotland, became a regular starter in the SWPL.
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Partick Thistle (2023–2024): Key figure in their top-six league finish and run to the SWPL Cup final. Named in the PFA Scotland SWPL Team of the Year and as club Player of the Year.
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Celtic FC (2024–present): Signed on deadline day in September 2024. Made an immediate impact, debuting in both the SWPL and UEFA Women’s Champions League, and scoring her first goal for the club in European competition. Quickly established herself as a starter, contributing goals and assists from right back.
International Career
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Scotland U23: Selected in 2023 and 2024 for friendly matches.
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Scotland Senior Team: First called up in February 2025, debuted as a starter in a UEFA Women’s Nations League match against Austria, and scored her first senior international goal against the Netherlands.
Playing Profile
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Position: Right back (can play across the defense)
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Strengths: Consistency, work rate, tackling, overlapping runs, and leadership.
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Style: Reliable defender who supports the attack, wins duels, and is comfortable in high-pressure matches.
Recent Highlights & Achievements
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Named in the PFA Scotland SWPL Team of the Year (2023–24, 2024–25)
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Club Player of the Year at Partick Thistle
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Scored first senior international goal for Scotland in 2025
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Immediate impact at Celtic with goals and strong performances in league and Champions League
Off the Pitch
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Qualified football coach with a UEFA B licence
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Holds a degree in Football Coaching and Management
FAQs About Emma Lawton
What position does Emma Lawton play?
Right back (defender).
Which club does she play for?
Celtic FC.
How old is Emma Lawton?
23 (born July 26, 2001).
What are her main achievements?
SWPL Team of the Year, club Player of the Year, Scotland international, and standout defender for Celtic.
What is her playing style?
Energetic, consistent, and reliable in both defense and attack.
Conclusion
Emma Lawton’s journey from the Celtic Academy to senior football in Scotland and England, and now back as a key figure for Celtic and the Scotland national team, highlights her as one of the most dependable and versatile defenders in the SWPL. Her leadership, technical ability, and commitment make her a standout presence on and off the pitch.
