AS the curtain was raised on Celtic’s domestic season last Saturday, British Lightweight Boxing Champion, Scotty Cardle, was at Paradise to lend his support to the Jock Stein 30th Anniversary Charity Match.

Taking place at East End Park on Sunday, September 6 (KO 2pm) and sponsored by Direct Slating Supplies, the match will honour the 30th anniversary of the 1967 European Cup-winning manager’s passing.

It will feature a squad of Celtic and Dunfermline Athletic Legends facing off against one another with proceeds from the event being split between the respective charitable arms of both clubs, Celtic FC Foundation and the Pars’ Foundation.

A proud Celtic fan, Scotty was at Celtic Park to parade his title belt following his incredible victory in the ring earlier this year.

Looking to September’s charity match, the 25-year-old has a foot in both camps as Scotty’s brother, Joe Cardle, is currently a player at Dunfermline Athletic.

When asked whether there would be a dilemma in the Cardle family for this match, Scotty was honest on the importance of family ties.

He said: “There will always be a little bit of split loyalties as I’m a very loyal person to my brother, that’s one thing.

“However, Celtic has always been a part of me – and my brother Jojo – and I’m sure it’ll be a great occasion.”

The Lancashire Bhoy has been a visible supporter of Celtic FC Foundation’s work and can be seen wearing the logo of the club’s charitable arm on his ring attire.

Scotty spoke of his support for Celtic FC Foundation’s work, saying: “Well, I know about the history of Celtic and it’s a very charitable club. By wearing the logo, I’m hoping I can raise awareness really.

“I follow the Foundation on Twitter and I’ve kept up with what they’ve been doing. I think all the things that they have done are incredible. So, I really just wanted to raise awareness and show my support for the club too.”

Scotty was also recently crowned British Lightweight Boxing Champion, fulfilling a lifelong dream after years of hard work and physical preparation.

On his tremendous title triumph, he said: “It’s unbelievable and a dream come true really. One thing I do know is that this is not the end. This is when it gets hard and I see this as just the beginning really.

“Next up, I’ve got to defend the title and it’s looking like mid-September at the moment. So, I’m back in training just now and back in the gym just like a contender.”

With September’s charity match commemorating 30 years since Jock Stein’s passing, Cardle was keen to express his admiration for Stein’s legacy.

He said: “Since I was a baby, I’ve always been in the Hoops and Celtic seems to have just brushed off my Dad’s shoulders.

“He’s told me everything about Jock Stein and the days of the Lisbon Lions and I’ve always looked up to that team of players.

“Really, 1967 was a massive year for Celtic and I’m happy to be a part of what will be a worthy tribute to Jock Stein.”   

Tickets for the match, priced at £12 for adults and £6 for concessions, are available ONLINE, by calling 0871 226 1888* or by visiting the Celtic Ticket Office.

Matchday Hospitality is available, on a first come, first served basis, in the Purvis Suite at a cost of £45 per person, or supporters can upgrade to a pitch-side box for an additional price of £100 per person.

To make a booking please visit www.dafc.co.uk, contact DAFC on 01383 724295, or [email protected]

Tickets for the dinner are priced at £500 for a table of 10 or £50pp and are now exceptionally limited. To make a booking call Celtic FC Foundation on 0141 551 4321 or email[email protected]

* Calls cost 13 pence per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge. For customer enquiries relating to existing purchases only, please call 0141 230 1967.  Calls charged at standard rate.