Celtic boss Neil Lennon backs ban on poppy protesters

Celtic boss Neil Lennon has backed the club's promise to ban the supporters behind Saturday's anti-poppy banner but admitted it was a "sensitive issue" at Parkhead which had divided the club's fans.

• The banner displayed at Celtic Park on Saturday. Picture: SNS

Lennon, from Lurgan in Northern Ireland, backed the club's promise to take action against the fans group known as the Green Brigade who unfurled a banner during half-time of the 9-0 win over Aberdeen which read: "Your deeds would shame all the devils in Hell. Ireland, Iraq, Afghanistan. No bloodstained poppy on our Hoops."

Celtic manager Lennon said: "I support the club's stance on it, the statement that was made yesterday.

"It's a sensitive issue with a lot of supporters, for and against.

"I go with the club's statement yesterday and I want to draw a line under that today."

After Scottish Premier League chief executive Neil Doncaster yesterday described the incident as "regrettable" Celtic released a statement stating their "intention to ban those identified as responsible from Celtic Park".

The statement said: "The club is currently carrying out an investigation into this matter.

"When it is concluded, it is the club's intention to ban those identified as responsible from Celtic Park.

"Celtic fans have rightly earned a magnificent reputation for their positive behaviour and backing of the club. It is extremely disappointing that the actions of a small minority have embarrassed Celtic and tarnished the club in this way.

"These actions have no place at Celtic Park and, clearly, we apologise for any offence caused."