A HANDFUL of Celtic fans gathered at Parkhead ahead of today’s clash against Rangers amid a large police presence at the stadium.
The Hoops take on their fierce rivals this afternoon two weeks after Steven Gerrard’s men clinched their first league title in a decade – ending Celtic’s ten-in-a-row hopes.
And a small number of fans were spotted outside Celtic’s ground before kick-off.
Cops were also seen outside Parkhead, with police vehicles and horses at the stadium.
Footie fans feared the game would be called off due to Scottish Government concerns supporters would flout virus rules.
It comes after Gers fans flocked to George Square in the city centre and Ibrox after they secured the title, trashing memorial benches and attacking cops.
A ring of steel was erected around Parkhead as security measures were stepped up in anticipation for the derby.
Scottish government official Jason Leitch said the upcoming Glasgow derby clash “worried him”, as fans were left unsure if the match would go ahead.
Top police officers warned there would be arrests if selfish supporters ignored lockdown measures.
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SNP health chief Jeane Freeman said there was a “real concern” the fixture would be axed for public safety, before it was later given the green light.
Ms Freeman had said: “I have a really clear message for football fans, regardless of what team they support.
“And that is that the current requirement is that they stay at home.
“Right now that really matters to suppress the virus.”
At the start of the week Celtic captain Scott Brown also urged Hoops fans to stay home ahead of the clash.
He said: “It was very interesting to hear the latest update and the message was really loud and clear – that we are still in a very difficult situation and that while we have made some good progress, so many people are continuing to contract the virus, so many in hospital and, of course, tragically, people are still dying.
“So we need to do all we can to look after each other and protect ourselves and our families.
“We know it has been so difficult for our fans not being part of matches, but they have done brilliantly throughout the pandemic.
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“Our supporters have been great in sticking to the guidelines, even after we have won the League and another Treble, so we just need more of the same.
“Our priority will always be the safety of our fans and that is all we want to ensure, so our message once again is enjoy our matches from home and keep you and your family safe.
“All the players can’t wait to have our fans back with us, but for now we send our sincere thanks and appreciation for helping us to meet this challenge and also for the great support we have had all season.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
