Celtic have broken their silence amidst yet another fine from UEFA.
European football’s governing body hit the club €20,000 for its fans’ use of pyrotechnics in their Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund a few weeks ago.
In addition to the fine, Celtic have been given a suspended one-game away-day ban. This means that if a similar incident that happened in Dortmund re-occurs over the next two years, Hoops supporters won’t be allowed to attend one of the club’s games away from home in Europe.
Celtic have responded to the latest debacle, publishing a short, sharp statement on its website last night of less than 200 words.
The club outlined its stance on the use of pyrotechnics at games, saying that the behaviour of a small group of supporters could potentially have a damaging impact on the wider fanbase.
The latter part of the statement read:
“The Club has been very clear, over a number of years, that the use of fireworks and pyrotechnics at matches is prohibited, and presents risks to supporter safety and to the Club under the applicable regulations.
“It is hugely disappointing, therefore, that the conduct of a very small minority has led to this decision, which could potentially have such a negative and damaging impact on the team and Celtic supporters wishing to attend an away match to support the team.”
Celtic’s latest run-in with UEFA comes as the club gears up to return to Champions League action next Wednesday.
The Hoops travel to Bergamo to face Atalanta, hoping to bounce back from their 7-1 trouncing at the hands of Borussia Dortmund a few weeks ago.
Before last season’s Europa League winners come into the mind of Brendan Rodgers, though, he has a table-topping clash against Aberdeen to contend with.
The Dons come to Parkhead with a perfect record so far this season, but the Bhoys will look to maintain their equally impeccable domestic run up to this point.
