Memorial Game announced

Motherwell and Celtic Football Clubs today jointly announced that Celtic Park is to stage a fund-raising tribute match to the late Phil O'Donnell.

Following recent discussions between Celtic FC and Motherwell FC and Phil's family, the match will take place at Celtic Park on Sunday, 25th May 2008 . Proceeds from the match will go towards the Phil O'Donnell Trust as well as a range of charitable organisations.

Phil died tragically in December of last year, after collapsing during a match at Fir Park .His loss was mourned by everyone in Scottish football.

Members of Motherwell's incomparable 1991 Scottish Cup winning side will play Celtic's famous 1998 League winning team in a poignant tribute to Phil, who played for both Clubs so successfully.

Celtic's Chief Executive Peter Lawwell commented, "We are delighted to be hosting this match at Celtic Park , an event which we feel will be a fitting tribute to Phil, a man who was loved and respected by so many. The tragic events of December are still very fresh in the memory and we felt it was very important that an appropriate gesture was made, to honour the life of Phil. Both ourselves and Motherwell FC will be working closely to ensure that this event is a great success. We will also ensure that Phil's wife Eileen and family will be closely involved".

"We are sure the occasion will be one where the whole of Scottish football will pay their respects to Phil and celebrate the life of such a great man".

Ian Stillie, Motherwell's Chief Executive said, "We felt this is one of the most appropriate ways in which to remember and honour Phil. The match will involve players who knew Phil personally and will clearly be an emotional occasion. It will also be an opportunity for supporters of any team to pay their respects to a man who was taken so young in such tragic circumstances. Everyone at Motherwell was deeply affected by Phil's death, and are proud to unite with Celtic and football fans everywhere to celebrate the life of such an iconic player."

More details will be confirmed soon...