Celtic’s first team were preparing for their much-loved annual Christmas visit to Glasgow Children’s Hospital today, but with a rise in flu cases and restrictions limiting visits to essential purposes only, this year’s visit has unfortunately been cancelled.

Although the players can’t attend in person, they were determined to bring festive cheer to young patients, sending a delivery of Celtic gifts and recording special Christmas video messages for the children to enjoy.

The Christmas visit is a highlight of the year for the squad and always offers a chance to bring a smile to children spending time in hospital over the festive period. While disappointed not to make the visit today, the players hope that the gifts and messages help lift spirits across the wards.

Celtic captain Callum McGregor, said: “We look forward to the Christmas visit every year – it means so much to all of us. We were lucky enough to visit in May with the League trophy, which was a brilliant day, but at the moment everyone’s health has to come first.

"We really hope the kids enjoy the gifts and the messages we’ve sent, and we’re hopeful we’ll be able to visit again at another time.”

As part of its Christmas Appeal, the Celtic FC Foundation has donated £10,000 to Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, continuing its annual support for the hospital and the vital work it does for children and families.

Tony Hamilton, Chief Executive of Celtic FC Foundation, said: “We’re pleased to continue our support for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity through our Christmas Appeal.

"Even though the players can’t visit this year, we hope the donation and the Club’s gifts help bring some comfort and joy to children and their families over the festive season.”

Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity also expressed its thanks for the Club’s ongoing support and the efforts made to brighten the day for young patients.

Kirsten Watson, CEO of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, added: “We know how much it means to the children and families when the players visit them in hospital, and we hope to welcome the club back soon.

"Although we’re disappointed that the visit can’t go ahead at the moment due to the rising flu cases, the health of the children always comes first, and we’re so grateful to Celtic and the Celtic FC Foundation for pulling out the stops to arrange such special video messages and gifts to brighten their day.

“We would also like to express our sincere thanks to the Celtic FC Foundation for continuing their long-standing support with their generous donation of £10,000, which will make an incredible difference to the lives of children in hospital.”

Celtic bring festive cheer to Children’s Hospital with £10,000 donation