Celtic pledge to donate funds from charity match to refugee crisis

The Scottish champions stated the club’s origins were behind their decision and described the situation as “horrific and heartbreaking”.

Their share of the takings from the Jock Stein 30th Anniversary match will go to the cause, with Celtic working with an international aid agency to ensure funds are used in the “most relevant, efficient and targeted manner.”

The clash between Dunfermline and Celtic Legends at East End Park will be followed by a charity dinner in Pittencrieff Park.

“Having seen the effects of this humanitarian crisis unfold in recent days, we felt as a club we should help in any way we can,” said Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell.

“Celtic was established as a football club to help people in need and this ethos remains a fundamental part of our club almost 130 years after our formation. None of us can understand the true horrors of this situation but as a club we wanted to show our support for those affected.”

Tony Hamilton, chief executive of Celtic FC Foundation, added: “This is absolutely the right thing for us to do. Our club was formed by immigrants, many of whom had escaped the devastation of the great famine.

"Celtic was created to offer vital help in a time of need and we feel it is important that we are there again.

“In the coming days we will appoint a third party charity with expertise in this area to ensure the money donated is spent wisely to alleviate the suffering, in the best way possible."

It follows news that Bayern Munich will invest €1 million (£730,000) into refugee projects and Borussia Dortmund’s move to invite 220 refugees to a Europa League qualifier.

Stadiums in Germany were awash with support for refugees over the weekend, with many banners taking over the terraces.