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Georgios Samaras' last-ditch penalty kick against the Ivory Coast that propelled Greece into the knockout stages of the World Cup put him into legendary status in Greek quarters.

However, in one young Celtic supporter's eyes, Samaras had already been propelled to heroic proportions.

Jay Beatty, a child with Down syndrome who we last saw on Samaras' shoulders celebrating at Celtic Park, has grown a strong bond with the Celtic star and Greek captain.

He was ecstatic when Samaras converted from the penalty spot to put Greece through to the round of 16.

Afterward, Samaras left a heartfelt message for Beatty and how he's been an inspiration for himself and his team-mates at the World Cup.

The Greek FA and Samaras even arranged a trip for Beatty and his family to attend Greece's round-of-16 match against Costa Rica at Recife's Arena Pernambuco.

Unfortunately, the family had prior plans to go on holiday and could not attend.

A class gesture, all the same.

[The SPORT Bible]