Aiden McGeady believes former club Celtic are perfect pre-season opponents for his new side, Sunderland.
The Scottish champions travel north on Saturday 29th July (KO 3pm) to mark the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Stadium of Light.
>> Buy your ticket for just £15 adults, £12 over 65s and £7 under-22s
McGeady, who came through the youth system at Celtic Park, is in line for his home debut and can’t wait to step out on Wearside as a Sunderland player for the first time.
“It’s great preparation – Celtic had an unbelievable season last year and the manager has built a good squad,” he said.
“For a pre-season friendly you couldn’t choose a better club, with the fanbase and following they have.
“It should make for a good atmosphere.
“I just want to get started now and repay the faith that the manager and everyone has shown in me.”
He added: “I grew up a Celtic fan, had a lot of good times there and left on good terms.
“I played against them a couple of times in the Champions League while I was in Russia and got a decent reception.”
With tickets for the game now on sale, McGeady will be backed by quite the personal following for his home debut.
“Some friends had already said they were going to the game, and when I was being linked with Sunderland they were asking me what was happening.
“Now I’ve signed they’ll definitely come and there’s quite a few of them!”
>> Welcome Aiden to the Stadium of Light! Grab your ticket for Sunderland v Celtic