Wolves to take on Celtic in Parkhead friendly

Wolves will play Celtic in a glamour pre-season friendly at Parkhead next month.

The first ever game between the clubs will take place on either Tuesday, July 26 or Wednesday, July 27, depending on which night Rangers have their Champions League preliminary round home qualifier, as Glasgow police won't allow the Old Firm teams to play on the same night.

The Champions League draw is on July 15 so supporters will have to wait to confirm plans.

Wolves' second successive pre-season trip north of the border sandwiches Saturday friendlies at Notts County and Ipswich.

But it's the game at the 60,000-capacity Celtic Park, which comes 12 months after Wolves' 2-0 friendly win at Hearts, that will set fans' tongues wagging.

It will also be a special night for manager Mick McCarthy, who remains a popular figure with Bhoys fans after a successful two years there as a player from 1987 to 1989, winning the Scottish double in 1988 and the Scottish Cup a year later.

McCarthy was also the Celtic fans' choice as manager after the sacking of Tony Mowbray.

Despite the McCarthy connection, it's not yet known why the game is taking place as Wolves were already relieved to lose the Nottingham Forest friendly on August 3.

Wolves veteran defender Jody Craddock has signed a new one-year contract – and is ready to fight for his place.

The 35-year-old was offered a new deal after helping Wolves to survive in the Barclays Premier League and has finally put pen to paper.

By TIM NASH