Police address Celtic squad ahead of Rangers cup tie
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill revealed that Police Scotland visited the squad on Friday for a 15-minute meeting about their conduct ahead of Sunday's Premier Sport Cup quarter-final against Rangers. The visit follows recent fan disorder and a decision to ban away fans from Old Firm derbies this season. O'Neill said the reminder was timely and that the club must avoid excessive celebrations or altercations.
Police Scotland's 15-minute pre-match briefing to Celtic's squad stems directly from the disorder that marred last season's Scottish Cup quarter-final at Ibrox, a match Celtic won on penalties. That incident prompted both Glasgow clubs to play their next home Scottish Cup fixtures behind closed doors, and the league has since barred away supporters from Old Firm derbies this season.
Celtic arrive with momentum, having won the last three derbies and holding a five-point Premiership lead after six games. Rangers, under new manager Derek McInnes, have recovered from a slow start with four consecutive victories. O'Neill acknowledged the unusual absence of away fans and the challenge of playing before a hostile home crowd, while noting the police conversation would not have occurred without recent events.
The police intervention underscores how high-stakes football rivalries can spill beyond the pitch, affecting public safety and community relations in Glasgow. The absence of away fans may reduce flashpoints but could also diminish the derby's intensity and atmosphere, altering the experience for supporters and broadcast audiences alike. Players' conduct, including celebrations, now faces greater scrutiny, which may set a precedent for how other clubs and leagues manage similarly tense fixtures.