Uefa hit Celtic with double charge over conduct

Celtic fans and players have been charged over their conduct against Inter Milan. Picture: SNS

As expected, the Scottish champions were yesterday charged in relation to the flares set off among the 3,500 visiting fans at the San Siro stadium on Thursday night during their Europa League defeat against Inter Milan.

Celtic have also been issued with a second disciplinary charge from Uefa over the “improper conduct” of their players. Ronny Deila’s team collected seven yellow cards on the night, including the two controversially meted out to defender Virgil van Dijk by Slovakian referee Ivan Kruzliak.

Both cases will be dealt with by Uefa’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body on 19 March and of greater concern to Celtic will be the potential sanction they receive for the setting off of fireworks.

It is the ninth time in as many years that Celtic have been charged for misconduct of their fans. They have incurred more than £150,000 in fines, the most recent being a £7,300 penalty imposed earlier this week for flares being set off at the Europa League match against Dinamo Zagreb in Croatia in December.

Celtic could now face more severe punishment for recidivism, including the whole or partial closure of Celtic Park for future European ties. “Unfortunately, one or two individuals have again damaged the club they claim to support, resulting in a further Uefa charge for the use of flares,” read a Celtic statement last night.

“Today we have been inundated with support from Celtic fans who want an end to this activity and, like the club, do not want those responsible associated with Celtic in any way.

“We would urge anyone with information on who these people are to get in touch with the club so that we can deal with this matter and get back to celebrating all that is great about our club.

“Over 3,000 fans travelled to Milan and supported the club brilliantly. Everyone at Celtic thanks these fans sincerely for the magnificent support they gave the team on another European occasion. It is important to note that Inter Milan and the local authorities have applauded our fans for their excellent conduct and positive support.”