Today’s photo of the day dates back to 5 August 1986. Indeed, it was 36 years ago today that the Celts travelled to London to face Arsenal in David O’Leary’s Testimonial match.
On the park, the Hoops won 2-0 courtesy of late goals by Johnston and McInally. However, the real story was off the pitch as thousands of Celtic fans caused a stir in the city. Celtic supporters gathered at Trafalgar Square before the game, some donning Argentina shirts just four years after the end of the Falklands War. Others burned a Union Jack during the match, at a time when the Troubles were raging and the Anglo Irish Agreement had been roundly rejected.
Among the madness, a familiar banner was seen. Many will know of the Popes XI flag due to the Bhoys ultras waving it at matches today. However, few will realise that this is actually a remake of an old banner that was on show in the 80s, and was also seen in Trafalgar Square on this day in question.
Celtic fans at Trafalgar Square, London – before David O’Leary’s Testimonial (1986).
The old Popes XI banner now flown by the Bhoys ultras
1/3 pic.twitter.com/Unmc5sKJkB
— Liam Kelly (@cfcliamk96) August 5, 2022
