CELTIC will fully investigate the violent scenes that took place at Parkhead on Sunday evening after claiming players and staff were targeted by MISSILES while being escorted from the stadium.
The Hoops required a police escort from Celtic Park following their Betfred Cup exit to Ross County with the club describing the scenes as ‘unacceptable’.
Celtic players and staff were escorted from Parkhead by policeCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow
The Parkhead club stated that while only a small number of people were involved, it cannot be condoned in any way as they slammed the actions of the individuals.
A club statement read: “Everyone at the club is hugely disappointed by this afternoon’s result, one which has ended our phenomenal run of 35 consecutive cup victories.
“While we sincerely share the huge disappointment of all Celtic supporters, there can be no excuse for some of the violent scenes at Celtic Park this evening. The club will be investigating these events fully.
“For players and a management team, who have given so much in recent years and have delivered 11 consecutive trophies, to require an escort from Celtic Park while being targeted with missiles, is simply unacceptable.
Police hold back Celtic fans from breaking through barrier during protestCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow
“While we understand that only a small number of people were involved in this behaviour, some of the actions this evening, which have obviously left our own players shaken, cannot be condoned in any way.”
Thousands of Celtic fans gathered at Parkhead to call for Neil Lennon to be sacked after another shock defeat.
Ross Stewart and Alex Iacovitti scored the goals as Ross County ended a run of 35 cup wins in a row for the Hoops and ended their stranglehold on Scottish silverware.
Pictures and video footage emerged on social media of supporters outside Celtic Park making their feelings clear following the latest loss.
Two cops suffered minor injuries amid the chaotic scenes, while Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf blasted the ‘disgraceful’ yobs responsible.
He tweeted: “Utterly disgraceful scenes outside of Celtic Park from a minority of fans tonight with violence aimed towards police.
“Officers have been front and centre keeping us safe during this pandemic, to treat them this way at any time is shameful, to do it during these times is disgrace.”
Meanwhile, Ally McCoist has blasted Celtic fans for breaking social distancing rules.
Glasgow is currently in Tier 4 lockdown and the Rangers legend hit out at supporters who have ignored strict Scottish Government guidelines.
Asked if fans are right to protest, he told Premier Sports: “Well clearly not if they are breaking social distancing.
“Listen, I totally understand the fans’ frustration, of course.
“But at the same time, if they are breaking rules and you start breaking laws, then you are overstepping the mark.
“I will always stick up for the fans in terms of they must voice their opinion and they are entitled to voice their opinion as long as they do it in the right way.
“If they are doing it in the wrong way tonight at Celtic Park then it shouldn’t be allowed.”
Thousands of Celtic fans protest outside Parkhead demanding Neil Lennon is sacked
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
