Celtic Donate £10,000 in Support of Fernando Ricksen and Motor Neurone Disease

Celtic and Rangers are proving that, above all, humanity trumps rivalry—no matter how historic, fierce and hated it gets, which is surely the case with Old Firm.

The Glasgow clubs are banding together in order to support Fernando Ricksen, 38, who revealed he was suffering from Motor Neurone Disease in October 2013.

According to mndassociation.org, "Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive disease that attacks the motor neurones, or nerves, in the brain and spinal cord. This means messages gradually stop reaching muscles, which leads to weakness and wasting."

The site notes there is currently no cure for MND, which "can affect how you walk, talk, eat, drink and breathe."

Alex Livesey/Getty Images

A team comprised of former Rangers players will face an all-star side that will be managed by former Ibrox defender Graham Roberts in a fundraising match for MND charities this weekend.

Ahead of Sunday's match, Celtic chipped in and donated £10,000 to the cause. Per Celtic's official website, Chief Executive Peter Lawwell explained the decision:

"

At Celtic, unfortunately we are all too familiar with MND and its devastating effects. Jimmy Johnstone, the man voted Celtic's greatest-ever player, fought bravely against this illness as did former player John Cushley, someone who gave so many years' service to the club.

Through Celtic FC Foundation and our wider charitable work, we are also in contact with a number of supporters who are facing this disease. We have had a long association with charities which work to tackle MND and through this event we are pleased to be able to offer our support again.

We would like also to take this opportunity to send our thoughts and best wishes to Fernando and his family.

"

[Celtic FC, h/t Reddit]