Ex-Celtic hero swaps Dubai birthday trip for Scottish staycation after flights AXED

A former Celtic star has been forced to swap sun for a staycation after his Dubai trip was grounded.

Charlie Mulgrew, a former defender, had planned to celebrate his 40th birthday in the United Arab Emirates but was left with no choice but to make alternative plans after his flight was cancelled.

Video footage shared on Instagram showed the ex-footballer and his wife, Alana, spending time in North Berwick, including a visit to Kilspindie Golf Club.

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The couple reportedly decided on the staycation after it became clear that Emirates flights to Dubai would remain grounded until at least March 4.

Emirates first suspended services on Saturday, following US and Israeli military action in Iran and subsequent airspace closures across the Middle East.

The United Arab Emirates’ General Civil Aviation Authority implemented a partial airspace closure, leading to all flights scheduled to and from Glasgow Airport to Dubai being cancelled.

Flights were not expected to resume until after 11.59pm UAE time on March 4.

The disruption marks the fifth consecutive day of cancellations at the airport.

Glasgow-born Mulgrew is best known for his success at Celtic, where he played under Neil Lennon during two spells at the club.

He won multiple league titles and individual awards during his time with the team.

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The 2011–12 season was a highlight of his career, with Celtic clinching the title following a 6–0 win over Kilmarnock.

The footie star scored twice and provided two assists in that match.

He was subsequently named SPL Player of the Year, PFA Scotland Player of the Year and Scottish Football Writers’ Player of the Year, as well as Celtic’s Player and Players’ Player of the Year.

A Rangers legend has also had his travel plans affected due to the ongoing military strikes.

Graeme Souness, former Rangers and Scotland captain, who was in the region when the US and Israel launched an attack on Iranian targets, was caught up in the fallout as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) closed its airspace.

The football pundit had been hoping to watch the Old Firm derby between Rangers and Celtic.

He said: "We're hearing some pretty loud bangs going off and that is anti-missiles taking out missiles that are being fired at some American base."

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