CELTIC’S pre-season friendly against Wolves has been called OFF.
The news was announced after the English Premier League club dramatically withdrew from their tour of South Korea.
Brendan Rodgers’ preparations for his return to action have been thrown into disarray after the Midlands outfit cancelled their trip while claiming “numerous financial and logistical obligations” had not been met by the tour promoters.
The Hoops – with South Korean international striker Oh Hyeun-gyu in their travelling squad – were due to face to the Molineux club on July 26.
The champions are still heading to Japan to face Yokohama F Marinos on Wednesday July 19 and then Gamba Osaska the following Saturday. There could yet be a replacement for Wolves in the second part of the Far East tour and the Parkhead will make an announcement in due course.
OH HAPPY DAY…Celtic’s South Korean striker Oh Hyeun-gyu with the Scottish Cup after the Hampden success earlier this month.
A statement from the English club read: “With great regret, Wolves can confirm that the club has been forced to withdraw from its pre-season fixtures and tour to South Korea next month.
“The withdrawal from the scheduled matches, which were set to take place at the end of July, comes after numerous financial and logistical obligations were not met by the tour’s promoter, Stadium X/USG.
“Wolves were due to play Europa League finalists AS Roma and Scottish champions Celtic, but after weeks of delays by the promotors and tickets not yet on sale for the matches, the difficult decision has been made to terminate the contract with the promoters and pull out of the tour.
“General manager for marketing and commercial growth Russell Jones has expressed his huge disappointment that matters beyond the club’s control have caused Wolves’ first ever visit to Korea to not go ahead.
“The trip was set to mark a significant milestone in the club’s history and provide an exciting opportunity for supporters in the UK, Korea and across the world, but with its cancellation, Jones understands that many fans will be left upset at not being able to see the Old Gold in Asia this summer.”
