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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Fraser Wilson

Celtic to hold Fernando Ricksen tribute in classy gesture for Rangers hero

Celtic will pay tribute to Fernando Ricksen before Sunday's match with Kilmarnock.

The champions will hold a minute's applause at Parkhead as they remember the Dutchman who spent six years with Rangers.

Ibrox icon Ricksen lost his six-year battle with Motor Neurone Disease on Wednesday morning at the age of just 43.

A minute's silence was held before Rangers ' Europa League clash with Feyenoord on an emotional night at Ibrox on Thursday before players joined supporters in a stunning mark of respect for their former number two in the second minute of the match.

Now Celtic have confirmed they will pay their own respects to the full-back on Sunday.

A statement from the Parkhead club said:"There will be a minute’s applause before Sunday's game against Kimarnock at Celtic Park in memory of Fernando Ricksen who passed away this week."

Tributes have flooded in for the popular player from throughout the football world this week.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell added his respects to the outpouring of grief.

He said: "Everyone at Celtic would like to extend their most sincere and heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family of Fernando Ricksen following today’s news that he has passed away.

(PA)

"Fernando was part of Scottish Football for a number of years and for him to be taken so young is a huge tragedy.

"He fought this terrible condition with such courage and we should all admire  and respect the inspirational way in which he tackled the challenge which he faced.

"He showed immense bravery throughout. 

"Our thoughts and prayers of course are with Fernando’s family and friends at such a difficult time."

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