sun shines on successful celtic training day

Newsroom Staff
THE sun was shining at Paradise today as around 15,000 supporters turned out to watch their heroes being put through their paces in a special Training Day at Celtic Park.

Gordon Strachan’s first-team squad were cheered throughout the event, from the moment they appeared on the pitch until the moment they took their final bow.

The Celtic manager was on hand to explain to supporters what was happening on the pitch and what was happening with the various training exercises the players were involved in.

Speaking after the training session, Gordon Strachan said: "I think as players and coaches you sometimes take the size of the club for granted, then you get days like this and think, ‘woah.’

"Most clubs in Britain would love a crowd like this on a matchday and we get it for a training session, it’s fantastic.

"It’s always nice to be appreciated and we certainly got that today, but these days are really for the fans to come and enjoy."

Towards the end of the session, the players took part in a Crossbar Challenge, which saw them all attempt to hit the bar with a shot from the halfway line. Unfortunately, no-one was successful in front of the expectant crowd.

There was plenty of entertainment on offer before the players appeared, with Graeme Lightbody, the unofficial world keepy-uppy champions, keeping fans enthralled with his ball skills.

And players from both the Celtic Boys' and Girls' Academies took part in coaching demonstrations under the watchful eyes of their respective coaches. It was a great day out for all the family and one that the Celtic players enjoyed.