Celtic vs Man United match to raise funds for East Africa

The forthcoming Legends match between Celtic and Manchester United will be raising money for Oxfam's East Africa food crisis appeal, the charity has announced.

The Legends matches feature former star players and celebrities, and this year's line up includes Roy Keane, Henrik Larsson, Dwight Yorke, Richard Ashcroft, Ricky Hatton, and Angus Deayton.

Although not playing, comedian Billy Connolly will be at Celtic Park to watch the match on August 9 in his role as patron of the club's charitable arm, the Celtic Foundation.

The Celtic Charity Fund has designated Oxfam's East Africa famine appeal as the event's main charitable beneficiary event.

Funds will go towards the support the charity is providing across the region to more than 10 million people in need of food aid and shelter.

Judith Robertson, Head of Oxfam Scotland, said: “East Africa is facing the worst food crisis seen anywhere in the world for many years – almost 12 million people are at risk right now.

"Oxfam is there, and we’re already making a huge difference, but we need fans of Celtic, Manchester United and football fans across the world to rally together and help us to do even more.

“The Legends Celtic vs Manchester United match is going to be an incredible night, and it’s fantastic to see so many players – past and present – and famous fans getting involved.

"Thanks to them, and the support of the fans, every minute of the match will help us raise money to save lives across Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia.”

Keane played for both Man U and Celtic during his career as a professional footballer.

He returns to Celtic on the eve of his 40th birthday and will surely be looking for a victory to put the icing on his celebrations.

Man U manager Alex Ferguson has said of Keane: "Over the years when they start picking the best teams of all time, he will be in there."

Executive producer of Legends, Lester Holcombe said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have secured Roy to play. For many of the fans he’s the greatest midfielder that Man U ever had. He never took any prisoners and we’re fully expecting him to bring that same competitive edge to this game.”

Celtic manager Neil Lennon said: “This is a great cause and one we should all support. The charitable spirit and generosity of our supporters is well known and we’re sure our fans will once again lend their backing to support the many thousands of people in Africa who need our help.

“The images from Africa which we are seeing daily are heart-breaking and this is a cause everyone at the club is fully behind."

The match is the ninth game produced by the Legends and will be broadcast live on ITV.

Tickets are now on general sale priced £10 Adult and £5 Concession. Call 0871 226 1888 or visit the Celtic Ticket Office.