Celtic have shown a heartwarming gesture by inviting young supporter Joshua McLaughlin to watch their Scottish Premiership match against Kilmarnock from the director’s box. The invitation follows Joshua’s touching interaction with BSC Young Boys fans earlier this year, which gained widespread attention on social media. Celtic’s match against Kilmarnock offers them a chance to move closer to securing the league title, as manager Brendan Rodgers urges his side to deliver a champions' performance.

Celtic have extended a heartwarming invitation to young supporter Joshua McLaughlin, offering him the opportunity to watch this afternoon’s clash against Kilmarnock from the director’s box.

Joshua became a social media sensation earlier this year after a memorable exchange with fans of Swiss club BSC Young Boys, following Celtic’s Champions League fixture against the side in January.

In a continuation of the goodwill, Joshua was recently invited to Bern, where he attended Young Boys’ match against Yverdon last weekend. The encounter ended in a 1-1 draw, and Joshua had the special honour of walking out onto the pitch as a mascot alongside club captain Loris Benito ahead of kick-off.

In yet another classy move, Celtic have now welcomed Joshua back to Celtic Park for this afternoon’s fixture, ensuring he experiences the match from the club’s director’s box.

This afternoon’s game holds significant importance for Celtic, as a victory over Derek McInnes’ Kilmarnock would edge them ever closer to securing the Scottish Premiership title.

Brendan Rodgers’ side are seeking a strong response following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to St Johnstone in their previous outing, with Daniels Balodis’ first-half header proving decisive on that occasion.

Speaking ahead of the match, Rodgers expressed the need for focus and a champion’s mentality:

“If we are going to be champions, then we must show why we deserve that title,” said the Celtic manager.

“We need to demonstrate strong performances and the right mentality. I’ve said before, we must sprint over the finish line — it’s about getting over the line and securing the points, not assuming anything is settled until it’s truly done.

“Part of my frustration last week was missing the chance to secure a home victory. The last time we achieved that under similar circumstances was during my first spell here in 2018.”