16/04/10
Celtic’s status as defending champions will make them even more determined to put on a good performance at next month’s HKFC IP Global International Soccer Sevens, according to club legend Danny McGrain.
The Scottish giants are looking forward to returning to Hong Kong Football Club, scene of their triumph a year ago when they beat arch-rivals Rangers 1-0 in the final.
“We’re delighted to be returning to Hong Kong in May and, as last year’s winners, it’s very important for us to return to try and retain the trophy we won,” said coach McGrain.
“The tournament is very well organised and has good facilities. It’s an important tournament for us and has in the past resulted in good football.
“The short games obviously suit the humid atmosphere and ball control is very important as you don’t want to be chasing the game in the kind of heat we will be playing in.”
McGrain, one of the all-time great fullbacks who played 663 games for Celtic and earned 62 Scotland caps, said the trip to the Soccer Sevens would also bring other benefits to the squad.
“Hong Kong is a fascinating place to visit and it will be good for the young players to see other cultures. It’s always a fantastic life experience for them,” he said.
