Paul McStay’s Maestros to face Rio Ferdinad’s All-Stars at Parkhead

Celtic have announced details of  a legends’ charity match featuring former Celtic star Paul McStay and ex-Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand.

On Sunday, September 7, 2014 Maestro, along with Celtic legend and former Captain, Paul McStay, will make a rare and much-anticipated return to Parkhead.

McStay’s Maestros will take on Rio’s All-Stars as a host of footballing legends and celebrity fans battle it out on the pitch at Celtic Park.

Paul McStay spent his entire career with Celtic, making his debut in 1982 and retiring in 1997.

“Although I’m now based in Australia, my heart will always belong in the East End of Glasgow.

“It was a privilege to play for and captain the Club I have supported all my life and the pride I felt all those years ago will forever remain,” said McStay.

“The Celtic fans were always an inspiration to me and I can’t wait to share another very special day with them, one which honours the very essence of our Club and its charitable beginnings. There’s going to be a buzz about the place!”

As a long-time admirer of Paul McStay, Rio Ferdinand draws a parallel with his hero as he spent a remarkable 12 years at Manchester United.

“This game presents a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness and funds to support the underprivileged communities of Glasgow and London. Throughout my career, I have always recognised how football has given me opportunities in life, and now – through my Foundation – I have a chance to put something back and support young people,” said Rio Ferdinand.

“Celtic Football Club and its supporters have a great reputation for their commitment to charity and social causes, and it is fantastic to be partnering with them around this initiative. The fact that one of my own sporting heroes, Paul McStay, is involved, just makes it that bit more special for me.”

“We are delighted to be hosting such another fantastic event at Celtic Park.  It is magnificent that Paul and Rio, such great figures in the game, have joined forces with the Celtic FC Foundation to create another great football and charitable occasion, one which I know will have such a tremendous impact,” added Celtic Chief Executive, Peter Lawwell.

“We are sure that once again, everyone taking part on the field, together with our supporters will get involved and make a positive difference to the lives of others.

“Celtic was formed in 1888 to help people in need and we are delighted that today we are able to continue this work and honour these founding principles in such a way.”

Net proceeds of the game will be split equally between Celtic FC Foundation and the Rio Ferdinand Foundation.

Monies will be primarily devoted to the work of the two charities in support of opportunities for young people in Glasgow and London respectively.

“As a Member of Parliament for the East End of Glasgow I was delighted to hear this news. Celtic’s community work in Glasgow is changing the prospects for young people in the City every day and the proceeds from the game are going to have a big impact on our community,” said Margaret Curran, MP for Glasgow East.

“We look forward to welcoming Rio and his All-Stars to Glasgow and we welcome the partnerships which evolve from the work of these two great Foundations.”

Tickets will go on sale to season ticket holders on a first come, first served basis from 9.30am on Tuesday, June 10, 2014.

Priced at £10 for adults and £5 for concessions. Tickets will be available to purchase ONLINE by calling 0871 226 1888*** or by visiting the Celtic Ticket Office.

Any remaining tickets will then go on general sale from 9.30am on Monday, June 16, 2014.

Premium tickets (£35) and corporate packages (£125) are also available by calling 0871 226 1888*** (Option 4) or emailing matchdayhospitality@celticfc.co.uk