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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Celtic release statement after Wolves pre-season clash axed

Celtic chiefs are "liaising with match organisers" after the planned friendly against Wolves was scrapped.

Celtic were due to take on the Premier League side in a pre-season clash in South Korea next month as part of an Asian tour.

However, Wolves this morning revealed they will not take part in the tour citing "numerous financial and logistical obligations" they claim have not been met by tour promoter Stadium X/USG.

As a result, the Premier League club are planning alternative pre-season friendlies with a European trip being considered instead.

Now, Celtic chiefs have confirmed they are aware of the statement from Wolves and are in talks with match organisers over the situation.

In a statement to the Scottish Sun, a Celtic spokesperson said: "We are aware of the statement from Wolves this morning in respect of our planned match in Korea next month. 

"We are liaising with match organisers and will update our supporters as soon as possible."

Brendan Rodgers side were due to play Wolves at the Suwon World Cup Stadium in South Korea on July 26.

However, it is unclear whether the fixture will be replaced with a new club taking Wolves' place.

During the trip to Asia, Celtic will also head to Japan with matches against Yokohama F Marinos and Gamba Osaka planned.

Celtic will face Ange Postecoglou's former club on Wednesday, July 19 before taking on Gamba Osaka on Saturday, July 22.

Pulling out of the South Korea fixture, Wolves general manager for marketing and commercial growth Russell Jones commented: “It’s not just Wolves who have been affected by this, it’s all three clubs that are part of this tour.

“The tour was brought to us by a well-respected and established group, so it gave us confidence that this would be a really exciting tour and at no point whatsoever did we think we’d be in the position we are right now.

“We have been in close dialogue with the tour promoters for the past two months as they sought new investment, following the loss of the original tour investor, but unfortunately, and despite numerous promises, they have not delivered.

“We’ve not taken this decision lightly and have explored every avenue thoroughly in an attempt to not let our fans down, including numerous conversations with other local promoters.

“Of course, this decision is a big blow to the club from a commercial perspective, but I am fully aware of the most important reason for pre-season, which is the preparation for another important Premier League campaign.

“Because of this, we have to move on quickly from this disappointment. We have to adapt, and will find a European solution to ensure the best possible preparation.”

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