GLASGOW head coach Sean Lineen has urged the Warriors faithful to turn out in their droves to say goodbye to nine first-team squad stars.

With tomorrow week's RaboDirect Pro12 play-off decider with Connacht also being Lineen's last in charge of Warriors on Scottish soil, the emotional ante was raised another level with the news that it will also act as a farewell to almost a third of Glasgow's current playing squad.

Although No.8 Johnnie Beattie's departure to French cracks Montpellier has been well documented and Scotland lock Richie Gray's move to Sale is old hat, the news that such popular figures as Colin Shaw, Calum Forrester and Fergus Thomson will also be leaving will shock many.

Injury has no doubt been a big factor in the departures of Forrester and Thomson, much like former Scotland inter- national Rob Dewey, whose Warriors career has been stymied by a catalogue of setbacks.

Also set to bid adieu will be wing David Lemi, lock Rob Verbakel and Argentine back Federico Aramburu.

For his part Lineen admitted his emotions will be put through the ringer tomorrow week.

The Warriors head coach said: "It's the nature of professional rugby that players come and go, but it's important to recognise the contribution of those that are moving on, and our supporters will certainly have taken a lot of pleasure from watching these guys through the seasons.

"Players like Johnnie, Calum, Richie, Fergus, Rob and Colin have been part of the furniture here for a lengthy period of time, and I'm sure will continue to hold Glasgow Warriors close to their hearts going forward.

"Even guys such as Federico Aramburu, David Lemi and Rob Verbakel, who've been here for a shorter spell, have really grasped and bought into what this club is all about, and have given everything to be part of our drive for success.

"Next Saturday is shaping up to be a very memorable night in the history of the club, and it will be great for the supporters to be able to show their appreciation of a group of players who have given a lot to the cause."

Although admitting he will have a lump in his throat, Lineen is adamant that the focus is very much on doing a job on Connacht, who themselves have not given up on qualifying for the Heineken Cup for the first time ever next season.

Tomorrow week's regulation season finale also represents Glasgow's last outing at Firhill, which has been their home since 2007, before their summer move to Scotstoun.

But Lineen rapped: "First and foremost, though, it's about getting the win that would confirm our place in the play-offs and give us a shot at third place. We haven't beaten Connacht in our last three games against them, and they're gunning to qualify for the Heineken Cup, so it's going to be another massive test."

LINEEN added: "I'm sure the fans will also be looking forward to thanking Gary Mercer, who has played a major role in the improvement of our defence over the years.

"From a personal point of view, it will be really nice to have the opportunity to show my own appreciation for the backing that the supporters have provided in my nine years at the Warriors."

Tickets for the Connacht game are on sale now via www.glasgowwarriors.org, by calling 0844 800 3490 or in person at the Gordon Street and Sauchiehall Street branches of Greaves Sports, Warriors' official retail partner.

Supporters who book in advance online or over the phone will receive a £5 discount on the match-day adult price.

There is also a super saver joint ticket covering the Connacht clash and the Saturday of the Emirates Airline Glasgow 7s taking place at Scotstoun Stadium earlier in the day.

Fans can book a £2 one-way bus transfer from Scotstoun and Firhill to take the hassle out of travelling between the two great events. Seats on this service are strictly limited and are selling fast.

The joint tickets and bus transfers can be purchased on the website or on the telephone number above.