Ange Postecoglou gave a grown-up and measured response to the Green Brigade protest that delayed today’s match between Celtic and Dundee at Dens Park.
A number of supporters threw tennis balls onto the pitch, before displaying a banner which said: “Fans or Higgins? The ball’s in your court, Nicholson.”
The banner references the ongoing campaign from The Green Brigade, Bhoys, The Celtic Trust and others to ensure that the club doesn’t employ police officer Bernard Higgins in a senior security role at Celtic Park.
Delaying the game was a controversial move for some. Sky Sports were very critical on air, while some supporters took issue with the event on social media.
However, Postecoglou couldn’t be more respectful of the fans involved in the protest, telling The Scottish Sun: “My view on all those kinds of things is that we live in a society where people are allowed to express themselves.
“I don’t necessarily think it’s a bad thing. My preference is that it doesn’t affect the 90 minutes of football. The 90 minutes of football is the time when I want us all united, the whole football club. Ultimately that is what we are all here for, those 90 minutes.
“That would be my preference but ultimately there are avenues for these kinds of things for people to express themselves if they are not happy about something. It’s not necessarily a bad thing.
“I don’t think it’s a shame. You need to understand when people aren’t happy about issues they have every right to express themselves. It’s just the manner in which they do it. It’s a special football club and we want to have success here. I think we all live and breathe for those 90 minutes – and I’d like in those 90 minutes for us to be a united club.”
This is why many supporters already love Postecoglou. It’s a very classy response that not only recognises the efforts of those people who care about the club but gets across his own view without argument too.
I’m sure the Celtic boss wasn’t delighted the game was delayed. However, the groups involved in this protest believe what they are opposing is vitally important for their safety, security and match-going experience moving forward. They have a right to protest as long as it doesn’t harm anyone. Postecoglou recognises that. Not every manager would.
The call for unity is strong, especially when delivered with such respect. Celtic need to move forward together with the supporters, that’s one of the reasons the potential appointment of Higgins is so controversial and the board have a big decision to make.
In other news, Disappointment for Celtic as Rangers get Sunday derby revenge.
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