James Forrest gets Celtic testimonial as Michael Nicholson pays touching tribute to 21 years of Parkhead service

Celtic will face La Liga side Athletic Bilbao in a testimonial match for James Forrest.

The winger is hunting down another Treble with the club he has spent his entire career with and he has still provided big moments under boss Ange Postecoglou, including a hat-trick against Hibs earlier this season. Forrest joined Celtic’s academy in 2002 and then in 2009 made himself a senior player. During his time at the Hoops he has played a huge role in delivering success, lifting 11 league titles, five Scottish cups and five League cups.

It's a game taking place on August 1 at Parkhead and also forms part of Athletic Club's 125th Anniversary celebrations. Boss Postecoglou said: “James has been a hugely important figure to Celtic across so many years, contributing massively to such a sustained period of success for the club and he is really deserving of this great honour. Although he has achieved so much he is someone who remains so humble and unassuming, continuing to quietly get on with his job and striving every day to do all he can to bring more and more success to our supporters.

“I am sure this match will be a great occasion for James and the club. It will be our first match back at Celtic Park after the summer break and we hope as many supporters as possible will be able to attend.

“We look forward to welcoming Athletic Club to Glasgow and we are sure they will provide a great test for us, but above all we look forward to a special night, honouring someone who has given us all so much.”

Celtic chief cxecutive, Michael Nicholson added: “We were really pleased to grant James this testimonial match, and we wish him and the Committee all the very best for the game, which we are sure will be a wonderful occasion.

“James has