Celtic have released a statement on the ongoing drama surrounding the upcoming derby fixture against Rangers at Celtic Park.
The club have confirmed that they will participate in ‘multi-agency’ discussions ahead of the match on March 21st.
Celtic have also stated that the Scottish Government have made it clear to the club they do not wish to associate the Bhoys with the shameful scenes in George Square and other Glasgow locations last weekend.
After Rangers won the Scottish Premiership title, supporters congregated against advice from the authorities.
Damage to public property occurred in the city centre and the whole affair was met with condemnation from the Scottish Government. [Sky Sports]
The statement, published on Celtic’s official website, said: “Celtic FC can confirm that the Club will participate in a multi-agency meeting to discuss preparations for our match on March 21.
“The Scottish Government has already made clear to Celtic that it does not in any way associate the scenes last weekend with Celtic or our supporters. Although Celtic and our supporters are desperate to get back to Celtic Park to support the team, the Club and our supporters are of course mindful of the risks associated with public gatherings at this important time.
“The Club has been clear in our messaging to our supporters of the importance of staying at home in line with applicable guidance throughout the pandemic. We have communicated regularly around our fixtures and our supporters have worked with the Club responsibly – the celebrations after our historic nine in row title triumph last summer and after our unprecedented quadruple treble Scottish Cup win in December are two key examples of that.
“We will re-emphasise that message for this fixture as we have done during the season and we are sure that our supporters will work with the Club while the restrictions remain in place.
“Given the damage caused to Club property recently, the Club has already taken steps to enhance security and protection of our property at Celtic Park and the Club is happy to work with those attending the meeting to ensure that any additional protection necessary will be in place for the match in question.”
Celtic statement is robust, clears up Scottish Government stance and fights our corner
Communication hasn’t been great from Celtic this season but, credit where it’s due, this is a decent statement that gets to the heart of the matter.
While there are concerns to consider about the match taking place on the club’s property next week, it should in no way reflect poorly on the club or Celtic supporters.
Celtic have been drawn into this debacle rather unfairly but it seems, at least in private, the Scottish Government have no problem admitting this has been a Rangers problem.
It’s not necessary for supporters of any persuasion to be at Celtic Park next week and, hopefully, the game can pass off without another scandal dragging Scottish football through the mud in the eyes of the wider public.
In related news, the Scottish FA have announced their referee appointment for next week’s derby.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
