The family of Celtic legend Billy McNeill has reached out to the club to pay thanks to outgoing captain Scott Brown, and to endorse next week’s tribute to our long-serving skipper.

As announced last week, supporters can pay their respects to Scott ahead of next week’s final home game of the season (Celtic vs St Johnstone, May 12) by visiting a designated collection point – where fans can leave their tributes, jerseys, flags and banners – from Saturday, May 8 to Monday, May 10.

Speaking on behalf of the McNeill family, Billy’s son Martyn contacted the club today with the following message:

“On behalf of our whole family, we are delighted for Scott’s record as a 9-in-a-row-winning Celtic captain and all his other contributions to the Club to be recognised at next week's match.

'No one would be better placed than our father to appreciate what it takes to be a successful Celtic captain and we know he would be so proud of Scott’s achievements.'

"The leadership, commitment and passion Scott has shown through his time at the club is a major factor in Celtic having won so many trophies and of course making history in a quadruple treble.

"No one would be better placed than our father to appreciate what it takes to be a successful Celtic captain and we know he would be so proud of Scott’s achievements.

"Scott is someone who has given nearly 15 years of his life to Celtic and throughout this time has represented the Club brilliantly. We are sure fans will be eager to pay tribute to such an important figure.

"As a family, we thank Scott sincerely for all he has done for the Club and we wish him and his family nothing but success for the future."

We realise it has been a very difficult year for supporters, not being able to access Celtic Park, and, unfortunately, this remains the case. But from Saturday, May 8, to Monday, May 10, the Club will be arranging a collection point where fans can leave their tributes, be that jerseys, flags, banners etc.

The collection point for Scott Brown will be open from 10am-4pm on these days and will be positioned at the Clyde Gateway Car Park, adjacent to the Jock Stein Stand. This can be accessed on foot or by car by entering from the Clyde Gateway road.

Please note, anyone who wishes to have supporters club banners etc returned should contact Celtic’s Supporter Liaison Officer, John Paul Taylor – jptaylor@celticfc.co.uk or @CelticFCSLO

The McNeill family sends heartfelt message of thanks to Scott Brown