Linfield create space for Celtic fans at Windsor Park

Linfield has set aside a section of Windsor Park for Celtic fans. Credit: Pacemaker

After a month of hype the talking is over and the final countdown is on to Linfield’s match against Celtic in the preliminary stages of the Champions League.

Friday evening’s qualifier at Windsor Park was originally set to take place on 11 or 12 July, but had to be moved to avoid a clash with the parades.

It is understood police will be on standby in Belfast, with a large security operation in place across the city.

  • Watch: David Healy gives his thoughts ahead of the match

Both clubs have made public requests that Celtic fans do not purchase tickets for the game.

However, in a statement on Friday morning, Linfield said any who have should proceed to the stadium via the Boucher Road and will be housed in the Kop Stand.

It went on: “Celtic fans will not be admitted to any other part of the ground and Linfield fans should not enter the stadium from the Boucher Road.”

Brendan Rodgers and his ‘invincibles’ arrived in Belfast on Thursday.

The Carnlough man, who is a big fan of David Healy, said he was disappointed that Celtic have had to opt not to take up their ticket allocation.

  • Watch: Brendan Rodgers praises 'iconic' Healy

He said: “The Celtic supporters will travel worldwide, but this is a game obviously that the football club haven’t been able to have assurances for their safety – which is sad for me."

Meanwhile the Blues manager said he was expecting to see some green shirts in the crowd.

He went on: “Brendan has said he is disappointed with the Celtic supporters, but I’m sure there will be plenty here.”

  • Watch: Jamie Mulgrew says Linfield know it will be tough

David Healy has had many memorable nights at Windsor Park - including that goal against England, and that hat-trick against Spain.

More recently he secured the treble by winning the Irish Cup as manager of Linfield.

Come 5pm he will be out to add another special occasion to the list, as his Irish League champions take on the unbeaten Scottish champions.

The winner of the two-legged tied will go on to face either Dundalk or Rosenborg in the third qualifying round of the Champions League.