Celtic investigating after 90 fans denied entry to Old Firm derby

Celtic FC is investigating complaints from fans after almost 100 supporters were denied entry ahead of the Old Firm derby.

Police Scotland confirmed a group of 90 people were refused entry to Celtic Park ahead of Sunday’s match.

The force released a statement following the match saying the group “posed a threat to the safety of people within the stadium and to the public” due to possible possession of weapons and pyrotechnics.

As part of the wider policing operation a 20-year-old man was arrested for an alleged police officer assault on approach to the stadium.

Celtic have since released a statement saying it had received complaints from fans regarding the police operation surrounding the match.

The club added that it would be holding talks with supporters and Police Scotland to understand the circumstances and events.

For the game at Celtic Park, police were granted extra powers under Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.

The act allows officers to stop and search people where “appropriate and necessary” either in vehicles or on foot.

The power, which is only authorised when “absolutely necessary”, also allows officers to order the removal of any item they believe is being used to wholly or partly conceal someone’s identity.

Celtic said it had also raised concerns to relevant authorities regarding members of Rangers team engaging with Hoops supporters.

It comes after Vaclav Cerny allegedly sprayed fans with a water bottle as he celebrated teammate Hamza Igamane’s winning goal.

Police Scotland confirmed it is looking into the incident.

A spokesperson for the club said: “Celtic Football Club has received complaints regarding the policing operation concerning yesterday’s match, specifically events away from Celtic Park.

“We are reviewing our supporters’ concerns and will be looking into these issues.

“It is important that these matters are addressed and the Club will be engaging in discussions with supporters and Police Scotland to understand the circumstances and events.

“With regards to the match at Celtic Park, we can also confirm that the Club has raised concerns regarding members of the away team engaging with Celtic supporters with the relevant authorities.”