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Sebastian Tounekti thanks Celtic for added support throughout Ramadan

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Sebastian Tounekti has thanked Celtic fans for their extra support throughout Ramadan.

Tounekti is one of many professionals combining their religious beliefs with their job and has been observing Ramadan while playing for Celtic.

The Tunisian winger is prohibited fromย eating or hydrating during daylight hours as part of the holy month and has to adapt to ensure he can remain at optimum levels. Combining that with his role in the title race is difficult enough, but the wide man could not fail to acknowledge the support he has received.

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Sebastian Tounekti of Celtic celebrates his team's second goal scored by teammate Reo Hatate, Sebatian Tounekti of Celtic reacts after VAR rules his goal out during the William Hill Premiership match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park
Credit: Getty Images/WM Sport Media/Ian MacNicol

Sebastian Tounekti thanks Celtic fans

Speaking to The Herald, Tounekti explained how it feels to play during the holy month of Ramadan and how the support of Celtic fans has made it easier for him.

He said: โ€œThe fasting is something I have been doing for a long time so I know what I should do to keep myself in good shape and what not to do.

โ€œIt is something I am used to and, of course, the club has been amazing in supporting me through Ramadan. The dieticians work with me closely to tell me what to eat and what not to eat.โ€

How football clubs have supported players throughout Ramadan

While there is no official break in play during Ramadan to allow players to break their fast during evening kick-offs, clubs have usual come to an agreement to respect those observing the holy month.

For example, during a moment where the ball is not in play for an evening kick-off, an added break is taken so that players can drink and eat when appropriate.

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Charlie Mulgrew celebrates his goal for Celtic in the Champions League qualifier against HJK Helsinki
Credit: Mark Runnacles/Getty Images

Against Rangers, Tounekti wonโ€™t break his fast however; if it were an evening game, he would be allowed to drink or eat once the daylight hours had ended.