Police launch investigation after ‘disgraceful and violent scenes’ at Celtic Park

Glasgow police have confirmed they are investigating violent scenes that erupted outside Celtic Park on Sunday night, leaving three police officers injured.

Hundreds of fans defied strict lockdown rules to congregate outside the stadium, after their team were knocked out of the second round of the Scottish League Cup by Ross County.

The Dingwall side, who are currently 9th in the Scottish Premiership, scored from the penalty spot in the 39th minute, before doubling their lead with a late header from Alex Lacovitti.

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Celtic said the club’s players were left “shaken” when Ryan Christie’s post-match interview had to be cut short as protesters clashed with police outside the stadium, and pelted the home squad with missiles as they left the ground.

Many of the protesters called for manager Neil Lennon to be sacked.

At a press conference after the match, Mr Lennon said: "What can I say? That's their opinion. It's been rumbling for a while.

"It doesn't matter what I say or what sort of bravado I put on. It won't wash. I have to turn it round with results. I can only do that with the players."

He and his players required a police escort as they left the stadium after their defeat.

The Dingwall side, who are currently 9th in the Scottish Premiership, scored from the penalty spot in the 39th minute, before doubling their lead with a late header from Alex Lacovitti. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)The Dingwall side, who are currently 9th in the Scottish Premiership, scored from the penalty spot in the 39th minute, before doubling their lead with a late header from Alex Lacovitti. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
The Dingwall side, who are currently 9th in the Scottish Premiership, scored from the penalty spot in the 39th minute, before doubling their lead with a late header from Alex Lacovitti. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

In a club statement, Celtic said the violence was “simply unacceptable” and said they would be investigating the incident, but insisted that only a “small number” of fans were involved.

“Everyone at the Club is hugely disappointed by this afternoon’s result, one which has ended our phenomenal run of 35 consecutive cup victories.

“While we sincerely share the huge disappointment of all Celtic supporters, there can be no excuse for some of the violent scenes at Celtic Park this evening.

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“For players and a management team, who have given so much in recent years and have delivered 11 consecutive trophies, to require an escort from Celtic Park while being targeted with missiles, is simply unacceptable.

Many of the protesters called for manager Neil Lennon to be sacked.  (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)Many of the protesters called for manager Neil Lennon to be sacked.  (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
Many of the protesters called for manager Neil Lennon to be sacked. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

“While we understand that only a small number of people were involved in this behaviour, some of the actions this evening, which have obviously left our own players shaken, cannot be condoned in any way.”

Police have vowed to identify those responsible.

Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland of Greater Glasgow Division said: "It was utterly disgraceful to see the violent scenes at Celtic Park on Sunday evening.

"Three of our officers suffered injuries, albeit minor, as a result of the behaviour which took place.

Glasgow police have confirmed they are investigating violent scenes that erupted outside Celtic Park on Sunday night, leaving three police officers injured. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)Glasgow police have confirmed they are investigating violent scenes that erupted outside Celtic Park on Sunday night, leaving three police officers injured. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)
Glasgow police have confirmed they are investigating violent scenes that erupted outside Celtic Park on Sunday night, leaving three police officers injured. (Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group)

"Abuse and assault is not simply part of the job for police officers and staff and will not be tolerated.

“The Chief Constable has made it clear that this is completely unacceptable and he has committed to reducing the impact of violence and improving the safety of officers and staff.

“We have now launched an investigation to identify those who were involved in the disorder and violence towards police officers, players and officials.

“My message is clear, you won’t get away with it, don’t think just because you weren’t arrested last night does not mean you escaped.

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“If you are identified as being involved, you will be arrested.

“I would appeal to anyone who has any information that will assist this investigation to contact us through 101.

“Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained."

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