THE hopes of South Korean international striker Oh Hyeon-gyu to show his skills in his homeland with Celtic have been scuppered.
The champions have been forced to pull out of that leg of their pre-season Far East tour due to “financial and logistical operations” not being met by the promoters.
Oh was aiming to demonstrate the ability that brought him seven goals for the treble winners following his £2.5million move from K-League outfit Suwon Bluewings in the January transfer window.
A club statement read: “It is with deep regret that Celtic Football Club has been forced to withdraw from our match in South Korea.
“The Hoops were originally due to play English Premier League side, Wolves, later this month, but numerous financial and logistical operations were not met by the tour promoter, and after weeks of delays, the Club has taken the difficult decision to terminate the contract and pull out of the tour.
“The Club and the players were excited about visiting South Korea and giving our fans the opportunity to see the team, but unfortunately, due to factors entirely outwith our control, we have been left with no other option than to withdraw from the match.
“Brendan Rodgers’ side will head to Japan for two matches against Yokohama F Marinos (July 19) and Gamba Osaka (July 22) before returning to Lennoxtown to continue their pre-season preparations.”
The Hoops will play Spanish aces Athletic Club of Bilbao at Parkhead on Tuesday August 1 as their final tune-up before they launch their bid for a third successive Premiership title against Ross County four days later on Flag Day in the east end of Glasgow.
Brendan Rodgers’ side also face Aberdeen at Pittodrie (12) and St Johnstone at Parkhead (26) in August before the Champions League draw is made on the 31st.
The group stages of Europe’s elite competition are due in the midweek of September 19/20.
