Liverpool are keen on finding defensive reinforcements (Credits: Imago Images)
Celtic return to Celtic Park this weekend for the first time since their dramatic title-winning victory over Hearts at the end of May.
Martin O’Neill’s side face English Championship outfit Middlesbrough on Saturday, July 18, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm UK time.
The match marks a significant milestone in Celtic’s pre-season programme as the Hoops build toward the new Scottish Premiership campaign.
O’Neill’s squad arrive at Parkhead having already completed a training stint in Portugal, where they worked in sweltering sunshine ahead of the new season.
Despite the occasion, a full house is far from guaranteed, with fan frustration over the club’s transfer activity continuing to simmer heading into the weekend.
Celtic supporters have grown increasingly restless with the lack of movement in the market, with £6M striker Camilo Duran the only new addition to O’Neill’s squad this summer.
On the pitch, Middlesbrough under Kim Hellberg will pose a genuine challenge, as the Championship side carries serious ambitions of winning direct promotion to the Premier League next season.
Unlike last week’s pre-season clash at Shelbourne, Saturday’s friendly has not been selected for broadcast by Premier Sports, meaning television coverage is unavailable.
Supporters wishing to watch the game can do so via CelticPlayer, which will live stream the friendly for subscribers across the UK, Ireland, and overseas, with coverage beginning at 2:45pm.
There is no pay-per-view option available for those who are not already CelticPlayer subscribers, meaning a subscription is required to access the stream.
Celtic’s pre-season schedule is designed to sharpen the squad before the competitive action resumes, with the Hoops looking to defend the Premiership title they sealed so dramatically in May.
Middlesbrough’s involvement in the fixture underlines their status as one of the more ambitious clubs in the English second tier heading into the 2026-27 season.
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