Celtic hope SPFL issue fixture list 'as soon as possible'

Celtic have said they hope the SPFL will issue the fixture calendar for the new season “as soon as possible”.

The league body has set a “firm target” of starting the 2020/21 Premiership season, behind closed doors, on the weekend of August 1.

However, that is conditional upon Scotland reaching phase two in its route map out of the coronavirus lockdown – the stage at which professional sport such as football and rugby is allowed to return.

Following Friday’s meeting involving Scottish Government and footballing authorities, Premiership clubs were given permission to return to training from June 11.

Talks are ongoing about restarting football in the lower leagues.

A statement from the Parkhead club said on Saturday: “Celtic has been working tirelessly to do all we can to assist in achieving a return to football and we would hope the SPFL are in a position as soon as possible, to issue the fixture calendar for the forthcoming season.”

Peter Lawwell, the club’s chief executive, added: “Everyone at Celtic warmly welcomes the decision in principle to a phased return to training and matches, while fully accepting that all decisions made in this regard must continue to have the safety and well-being of all concerned at their core.

“The past few months have been extremely difficult for supporters, players, staff and clubs right across the game.

“While we accept there will be no immediate return to normality, we are moving in the right direction and we thank our fans for their patience, understanding and support during these unprecedented times.”