The father of a teenage footballer who died last week has called on Celtic fans to hold a minute's applause in his memory during Wednesday's home match against Dundee United.
Aidan McCabe, from Cumbernauld, passed away suddenly at the age of 17. The former Airdrie FC youth player spent time in their 2009 squad before moving on to join Cumbernauld Colts and Rossvale FC.
Appeal to supporters
Aidan's dad, Graeme, is asking Hoops supporters to join a minute's applause in the 17th minute in memory of the teen during the match on Wednesday, October 28.
A statement issued on behalf of Graeme by fellow Celtic fan Paul Irvine on social media read: "A wee favour from me to the Celtic family. Please share this. As some of you already know, last Wednesday, 17-year-old Aidan McCabe from Cumbernauld tragically passed away."
"A talented young footballer who'd played for Airdrieonians Community Club and other local sides, Aidan was also a massive Celtic supporter. His dad, Graeme, had reached out with a simple request, and I'd really love us to help make it happen."
Tributes from clubs
"This Wednesday, 28th October, during Celtic's home match against Dundee United, supporters are being asked to join in a minute's applause in the 17th minute in memory of Aidan," the statement continued.
"As a parent, I can't begin to imagine the heartbreak his family must be feeling. If you're going to Paradise on Wednesday, please join in. If you know someone who's going, please pass this on."
"I'd love nothing more than for Aidan's family to hear that applause ringing right around Celtic Park and know just how much the Celtic family cares."
"My deepest condolences to Graeme and everyone who loved Aidan. Rest easy young man. Forever 17. Please share and help spread the word troops."
Airdrie Community Club held a minute's applause for their former player before every one of their age groups' games on Saturday. Photographs showed youngsters, coaches, and referees huddling around the centre circle and partaking in the heartfelt homage.
A moving statement to their social media read: "Today, all matches played By Airdrie Community Club commenced the game with a minute's applause in memory of a former player Aidan McCabe."
"He previously played with our 2009 team and was a wonderful young man. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers got to his family and friends at this time."
Aidan's heartbroken mum was left "touched" by the gesture. She wrote: "That was so touching for the teams to do this, my sincere thanks. He was always always football mad from a tot. Give your kids an extra kiss and cuddle."
A minute's silence also took place at Harestane AFC 2009's match against Stirling Albion and Third Lanark U19's versus Giffnock SC U19s on Saturday. Dullatur Golf Club, where Aidan was a member, announced that they will be placing their club flag at half mast in his memory.
