Barcelona v Dundee Utd (26th July)

(Written by Tactful Sheik)

People of Dundee – lock up your daughters – because Ronaldinho and co. are coming to town!!!

Barcelona announced the possibility of a Scottish tour earlier in the year, with both Hibernian and Dundee United expected to host glamour friendlies in late July and the date for the match has now been confirmed as the 26th of July, with an 8pm kick-off.

At one stage the match was looking doubtful after rumours of a excessive £1million demand by Barca and no guarantee that Ronaldinho, Deco, Lionel Messi and Samuel Eto’o would even play in a purposed ‘exhibition match`.

Although, Dundee United chairman Eddie Thompson officially announced last week that the match will go ahead on July 26th, with the match being shown live on Setanta and Hearts also hosting the Catalan giants during their 5 day stay in Scotland.

“I am delighted to confirm that, after detailed discussions, FC Barcelona will be coming to play Dundee United at Tannadice on July 26,” admitted Eddie Thompson.

“This is a dream fixture therefore, just ten days ahead of the start of the new domestic season. We are delighted to be in a position to bring some of the world`s greatest players to Tannadice for what should be a night to remember for all our fans and indeed for our players.”

Everyone is predicting a high demand for tickets, with supporters of other clubs keen to see some of Europe`s most talented footballers up close, but Dundee United are planning to give priority for tickets to season ticket holders.

Meanwhile, Barcelona are looking forward to their summer pre-season trip, because they are also getting the chance to get in a few rounds of golf at Saint Andrews while they are in Scotland.

“At St. Andrews we have found the ideal training environment. The North of Europe is ideal for pre/season training because the temperature is not so high there. Furthermore Scotland has always had a passion for football,” said a Barcelona spokesman.

“These two factors coupled with the facilities at St. Andrews means that we have found the ideal environment for our pre/season training camp which is one of the most important events of the year for our team.”

“We have chosen two very good rivals to fit our progressive preparation and we look forward to playing in front of the wonderful, world renowned Scottish football fans”

Tickets will go on sale to season ticket holders from Monday 14th of May until Friday 18th of May, with any remaining tickets on sale the following week – though season ticket seats cannot be guaranteed for the game.

Fans can buy tickets at the official Dundee United Club Shop in Tannadice street (opposite the ground) or by phoning the ticket office on (01382) 833166 (option 1).

Prices will be £22/£25 for adults and £12/£13 for concessions, with the match considered a category A game.