Celtic have made it clear the Sydney Super Cup is going to be ‘bigger and better’ without Rangers after Everton officially replaced them in the Australian tournament.
As revealed on 67 Hail Hail earlier this week, it’s English Premier League opponents that the Bhoys will now face in the inaugural edition of the event, which also includes Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers.
Celtic will play Sydney FC on November 17th before going up against Frank Lampard’s Toffees three days later on November 20th. club announced the news on social media late last night – with the not-so-subtle dig included.
Rangers had initially been announced as Celtic’s opponents on the 20th but very bitterly decided to withdraw after an embarrassing fall out with their supporters.
With the media coverage pitching the Ibrox side as a supporting act to Ange Postecoglou’s homecoming, fans were left enraged.
Rangers ultimately claimed they were pulling out as organizers were unwilling to ‘fulfil their commitments’, which was strenuously denied.
Postecoglou famously batted away concerns about Rangers’ exit from the event shortly after, telling Sky Sports: “Whatever ticket sales we lose out on, I’m sure my friends and family will pick up, mate, so we’ll be alright.”
That was three months ago and concerns had started to ramp up on whether the tournament organizers would ever find a replacement.
However, the Everton announcement should be the boost needed to make the event relevant in people’s minds again and ensure a big crowd packs into the Accor Stadium.
It promises to be a great occasion for Postecoglou, Harry Kewell and all the Celtic supporters in Australia who have been waiting patiently for the club to return.
Celtic last visited the country in July 2011, going up against Central Coast Mariners, Perth Glory and Melbourne Victory in a three-match tour.
In other news, Jota names toughest player in training, funniest in Celtic dressing room and lauds supporters’ song.
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