EXCITEMENT is building ahead of A Match for Cancer, sponsored by Dafabet, which will see the return of a host of familiar figures to Paradise, together with a number of new faces to grace the hallowed turf, all with the intention of raising money to fight cancer.

The match – which will take place at Celtic Park on Saturday, September 8, 2018 (KO: 2pm) – will see Celtic legend, Stiliyan Petrov and Liverpool midfielder, James Milner pull together opposing squads from the worlds of football and entertainment.

Among those who will be joining Stiliyan and James on the day, will be former Hoops defender Joos Valgaeren. The Belgian spent five years with the club, having been signed by Martin O’Neill back in 2000, and he was an instant hit as the Bhoys claimed a domestic treble in his first season.

Joos spoke of his delight to be involved and his excitement ahead of a return to Celtic Park. He told the official Celtic website: “It’s a real honour to have been invited by a player of Stiliyan’s calibre to play in this charity match.

“The match is for a very special cause. Everyone knows someone close to them who has been affected by cancer, so to be asked to take part is a great privilege. As a former player, I’m just delighted to be able to play a part in raising funds in the fight against cancer.

“It’s always great to return to Glasgow. Two of my sons were born in Glasgow so it’s still very much a part of my life. I’m looking forward to playing in front of the Celtic support again, of course. Having good fans is one of the most important things as a player and I loved my time at Celtic.”

Speaking of the personal highlight of his time with the Hoops, Joos added: “There were many great moments with Celtic but my first game against Rangers really stands out for me. I had only been with the club for a couple of months, so to win the game 6-2 was truly incredible.

“Seeing what it meant to the supporters was very special. It will be great to get back out there with the rest of the Bhoys during the charity match.”

Tickets are now on general sale, on a first come first served basis – maximum of 10 per person – priced at £14 for adults and £6 for concessions*. 

Tickets are available to purchase online at www.celticfc.net, by calling 0871 226 1888** or by visiting the Celtic Ticket Office. The lower tier will be on sale in the first instance and Rail Seating does not apply to this match.

Premium tickets (£30) and corporate packages (£135) are also available by calling 0871 226 1888** (Option 4) or emailing [email protected] 

Celtic FC Foundation will also be hosting a fundraising dinner – An Evening with Petrov and Milner – the night before the match, on Friday, September 7. This will take place in the Kerrydale Suite at Celtic Park.

Joining Stiliyan and James on the night will be a host of representatives from both charity match squads. Guests will enjoy an excellent three-course meal, auction, prize draw and after-dinner entertainment, in the company of a number of football and celebrity greats. The age limit is 18+.

Tickets are priced at £700 for a table of 10 or £70 per person and can booked via email [email protected] or telephone 0141 551 4321.

Mirroring the match, net proceeds of the dinner will be devoted to tackling cancer through Celtic FC Foundation (SC024648), The Stiliyan Petrov Foundation (1154131) and The James Milner Foundation (1146768).

* Concessions 65+/Under 16s.

** Calls cost 13p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge. Booking fees apply online and via our sales line.