CELTIC are set to replay what was arguably the most controversial encounter in their history after entering talks to face Argentina's Racing Club home and away.

The South Americans claimed they have written to Celtic and received a favourable reply to a proposal to play two friendlies - in Glasgow and Buenos Aires - to mark the 50th anniversary of the notorious 1967 Intercontinental Cup Final.

Both matches are due to be played in July 2017.

A Racing statement said: "After writing to Celtic, we received a response from the Celtic chairman Ian Bankier who is agreeable with our proposal.

"The games will be played in Glasgow and Buenos Aires to mark the 50th anniversary."

The legendary three-game encounter between the Hoops - European Cup winners in 1967 - and Copa Libertadores holders Racing was one of the most bruising series of games in football history.

Celtic won the first leg at Hampden Park in front of 103,000 fans, thanks to a Billy McNeill strike in a game marred by Jimmy Johnstone being spat on by away players.

In the return leg watched by 100,000 in Racing's El Cilindro ground, Celtic crashed to a 2-1 defeat despite a Tommy Gemmell opener.

Keeper Ronnie Simpson missed the game after being hit by a missile before the kick-off and Celtic's dressing room was invaded by home fans after the final whistle.

Celtic debated whether to forfeit the deciding third game in Montevideo three days later but eventually agreed to play it after Jock Stein insisted.

A Paraguayan referee lost the plot and sent off a staggering four Celtic players, although Bertie Auld refused to leave the pitch and was allowed to stay on!

Celtic eventually lost 1-0 but the Uruguayan crowd lobbed missiles at the Racing players on their lap of honour.

Incredibly, Celtic fined their own players £250 each, while the Argentinians were rewarded with a £2500 bonus and a new car.