Celtic will organize ‘#19’ – a legends’ charity match to celebrate the career of Stiliyan Petrov - on Sunday, September 8, the football club announced.

The event will see Stiliyan and a host of his former team-mates from across his illustrious career, together with a number of other footballing legends and celebrity fans, battle it out on the pitch at Celtic Park.

The former Celtic midfielder announced his retirement from football in May 2013. He has been fighting a brave and courageous battle since being diagnosed with leukaemia in March 2012, and he is currently in remission from the disease.

To assist others, he is now in the process of setting up a new charitable foundation to help address the issues involved when people receive a leukaemia diagnosis.

Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell said: “Stiliyan was a wonderful servant to the club and his drive, commitment and natural flair made him a true fans’ favourite. 

"He has shown remarkable courage and determination in his battle against leukaemia and we will continue to support him as his recovery continues. We are absolutely delighted to host this charity match which will provide our supporters with a collective opportunity to show their appreciation and love for one of our own.”

Stiliyan Petrov said: “I’m absolutely delighted that this game is going to take place at Celtic Park. It will be a wonderful start for my foundation, and I’m really happy to be coming back to a place where I spent seven brilliant years. It will be great to see everyone there.

“I know it’s going to be an emotional occasion, particularly after what I’ve been through this past year, but I’m looking forward to it. I’ve had an incredible amount of support from fans everywhere, but obviously at Aston Villa and Celtic, and it’s something that my family and I really appreciate.

“I want the foundation to make a real difference and to help people who are going through the same experience that I’ve gone through. It’s very important to me to be able to help others, and this game is a great start for the foundation, and I’d like to thank Celtic for organising this match.

“I’m looking forward to being back at Celtic Park, meeting up with old friends and, of course, getting a chance to say thank-you to all the fans who’ve given me their support over the past year. It’s the best possible start that my foundation can get, and it will be a great occasion.”

Net proceeds of the game will be passed to Celtic Charity and will support Stiliyan Petrov?s nominated charities plus a range of other projects and worthy causes across the local community and beyond. 

Celtic FC Foundation CEO, Tony Hamilton, said: “It’s an honour for us to be involved in this match which celebrates a wonderful footballer but, more importantly, an incredible man – a man who knew what it meant to play for our football club. 

"The funds raised will help others across the country facing a similar diagnosis to Stiliyan and also some of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people.”

Tickets will go on sale to season ticket holders on a first come first served basis – maximum of 4 per person - from 9.30am on Tuesday, June 25, 2013, priced at GBP 10 for adults and GBP 5 for concessions. 

Tickets will be available to purchase online, by calling 0871 226 1888** or by visiting the Celtic Ticket Office. Premium and Corporate tickets will also be available.  Any remaining tickets will then go on general sale from 9.30am on Tuesday, July 2, 2013.

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