SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP CHAMPIONS Celtic face Hearts at home this afternoon (3pm).
The Hoops, who trail league leaders Aberdeen by five points after the opening eight matches, will wear their traditional green and white kit for the game, but the jerseys will contain an additional crest (a shamrock inside a Celtic cross) to mark National Famine Memorial Day.
“Unquestionably, the Great Hunger was a transforming event in Ireland, which changed the demographic and cultural landscape forever,” reads a statement from the club.
“Indeed, there is nothing else in the history of the Irish people that can be likened to the Great Hunger, either for its immediate impact, or its legacy of emigration, cultural loss and decline of the Irish language.”
Celtic CEO Peter Lawwell added: “The origins of Celtic Football Club are inextricably linked to the Great Famine and it is right that we once again join in this commemoration.
Celtic was formed by immigrants and to help people in real need, many whose families had escaped the devastation of the Great Famine.
“We should never forget the devastating impact this event had on the lives of so many millions of people and we are pleased again to play our part in this year’s memorial.”
(h/t: Balls)
