From pitch to pavement: Celtic legends Simon Donnelly and Jackie McNamara to take on London Marathon for Headway UK

Simon and Jackie’s campaign ‘The Road to London’ was born from a high-stakes deal struck on their Not Another Football Podcast with guest Shebahn Aherne. The terms were crystal clear: if Celtic were crowned Scottish Premiership Champions, the boys would have to lace up for 26.2 miles.

With the trophy safely back in the Parkhead cabinet, the former Hoops stars must now uphold their end of the bargain, swapping the comfort of the studio for a gruelling 32-week training regime.

Jackie, who captained Celtic to multiple titles and made over 350 appearances, and Simon, a fellow 1998 World Cup squad member and Celtic favourite, are no strangers to high-pressure environments.

However, they admit that ‘The Road to London’ is a different kind of pressure - specifically on their self-proclaimed ‘vintage’ joints.

“We were cheering Celtic on to the title, but with every point they picked up, we realised we were a mile closer to the start line,” said Jackie.

“The transition from pitch to pavement has been a bit of a shock to the system. We’re doing this for two incredible causes - Headway UK - the brain injury association and the Consilium Sports Group Foundation - which is the only thing that will keep us going when the 6am alarms go off.”

Jackie and Simon say every step taken on ‘The Road to London’ is dedicated to raising vital funds for both organisations.

Headway UK is a cause close to the heart of the football community, providing essential support to those affected by brain injury, while The Consilium Sports Group Foundation is dedicated to using the power of sport to support charitable initiatives and create opportunities for young people.

By running on the first-ever Saturday London Marathon (April 24, 2027), Simon and Jackie will be part of history.

Throughout the 32-week journey, ‘The Road to London’ will be documented via a dedicated microsite (www.notanotherpodcast.co.uk) and weekly updates on Not Another Football Podcast.

Fans can follow every blister, triumph, and tactical complaint on ‘The Road to London’ via Not Another Football Podcast, featuring training updates and celebrity guest runs. You can also follow them on Instagram @notanotherfootballpod.