CELTIC have requested Athletic Bilbao postpone a presentation of their unique award to Billy McNeill on Saturday.

The Hoops legend lost his long battle with dementia this week and sent the Scottish champions into mourning for the first British player to lift the European cup.

A Bilbao party travelled to Glasgow earlier this month to present the McNeill family with their prestigious 'One Club Man' award.

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And they planned to welcome a delegation from Parkhead for a new presentation in front of their supporters at their San Mames Stadium before their game against Alaves this weekend.

But they have revealed Celtic have asked the Basque club to reschedule the presentation and it will now take place ahead of their final La Liga game of the season on May 12 against Celta Vigo.

Celtic face Kilmarnock on Saturday in what is certain to be an emotionally-charge encounter.

A Bilbao statement said: "Celtic FC has asked Athletic to postpone the delivery of the One Club Man award to Billy McNeill due to the death of their legendary Scottish captain.

"In the circumstances, the tribute to Billy McNeill will now go ahead at the San Mames before the match against Celta Vigo."