Unruly fans tarnishing Celtic says Billy McNeill

 

Pa
Tuesday 20 December 2011 11:31 GMT
Comments
The offending banner unfurled by Celtic fans
The offending banner unfurled by Celtic fans (GETTY IMAGES)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Celtic legend Billy McNeill has hit out at the unruly Hoops fans who have landed the club in the dock again.

Yesterday UEFA confirmed they had opened disciplinary proceedings against Celtic, charging the Glasgow club with "the displaying of a banner of an offensive nature and the setting off of fireworks by supporters" during their Europa League game against Udinese in Italy last week.

The incidents came days after the club were fined about £12,700 for "illicit chanting" involving pro-IRA songs at a Europa League game against Rennes at Celtic Park.

Following the game in Udine, Celtic manager Neil Lennon, chief executive Peter Lawwell and chairman Ian Bankier rounded on the rogue fans who had "embarrassed" the Parkhead club.

This morning McNeill, former skipper and manager, told the Scottish Sun: "This has left me hurt and disappointed.

"For generations, Celtic fans have had a great record in Europe.

"Now that record is in danger of being wrecked by these people - I struggle to call them fans.

"If these people have ruined everything for everyone then the club has to cut them out and get them away.

"Because God knows what will happen to the club if it's allowed to continue."

The case will be heard by the UEFA's control and disciplinary body on January 26.

PA

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in