A benefit match between Man United legends and an Ireland-Celtic selection is to be held in memory of former Hibs’ player Liam Miller.
The popular midfielder played for 12 teams during his career but featured more times for Hibs than any other side after John Hughes brought him to Easter Road in 2009.
His sublime skills instantly made him a favourite amongst the fans and news of his passing following a short battle with pancreatic cancer aged just 36 earlier this year saddened everyone at the club.
The tribute match on 25 September 2018 will take place at Turner’s Cross Park in Miller’s native Cork, and the game will be followed by a black tie gala dinner in Cork City Hall with all the proceeds going to help Miller’s young family rebuild their lives. Tickets are available on tickets.ie
Manchester United legends Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Denis Irwin, Jaap Stam, Louis Saha, Nicky Butt and Rio Ferdinand, have agreed to take part while Roy Keane will lead the side.
The Ireland-Celtic combined selection will be managed by current Ireland boss Martin O’Neill and will include Robbie Keane, Damien Duff, Stephen Carr, Kevin Doyle, Keith Andrews, Richard Dunne, Kenny Cunningham, Kevin Kilbane and Andy Reid.
Sir Alex Ferguson, Roy Keane, Man United chief executive Ed Woodward and family neighbour Michael O’Flynn have all been involved in the planning.
O’Flynn, who is chair of the committee, said: “We are energised and greatly encouraged by the support from Manchester United, Celtic, John Delaney and the FAI and a host of players who have rowed in so readily behind this effort.
“The game at Turner’s Cross will attract fans across the country, who will descend on Cork to see many of the game’s greats. Liam was a friend and neighbour of mine. His whole family, including Clare and their three children, suffered a devastating loss when he passed away and our hope is that the events in September will honour his memory and help his loved ones move forward with their lives.
“It is rare you get to see so many outstanding football players on the one pitch, and I hope it will be a great day for all involved.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
