Hibs: Tough chant stance ahead of Celtic visit

Fans were today warned police will deal "robustly" with any sectarian singing as Hibs face up to Celtic in their opening game of the season at Easter Road on Sunday.

Hibs, Celtic and Lothian and Borders Police have issued a joint statement aimed at ensuring the new season gets underway without any of the problems which marred last year.

Sunday will be Celtic's first visit to Edinburgh since their match at Tynecastle, the second last of the season, erupted as Hoops boss Neil Lennon was attacked by a supporter while there was offensive singing from the away end.

The SPL decided not to take action against either club but all parties within Scottish football are determined to stamp out the sort of behaviour which made headlines around the world.

Today the Capital outfit warned supporters going to Sunday's match: "Hibernian and Celtic football clubs in partnership with Lothian and Borders Police are reminding fans that sectarian singing will not be tolerated in any shape or form.

"Police and our clubs take seriously any allegations of sectarian, racist, or other offensive chanting prior to, during and after, football matches, and officers are briefed prior to any game to deal robustly with any individuals who are clearly identified as being responsible.

"The force will fully investigate relevant complaints regarding such behaviour, and where the evidence is sufficient, those responsible will be arrested and charged.

"Both clubs fully support this stance and will work in partnership with the police to enforce this. Supporters are advised that if they are involved in this type of behaviour before, during or after the match, the club will issue an indefinite ban to those concerned, irrespective of police action. The stadium is looking forward to welcoming fans and families to the match, and any intimidating or violent behaviour will be addressed immediately."

Meanwhile, Hibs target Cillian Sheridan, a former Celtic and St Johnstone player, has revealed he remains keen on a move to Easter Road having impressed on trial – but insisted his current club, CSKA Sofia, will have the final say.

Sheridan, who scored in Hibs' 3-1 win over East Fife in pre-season and appeared against Barnsley at East Mains, is eager to leave Bulgaria but Hibs boss Colin Calderwood, who is confident of signing Ghana internationalist Junior Agogo, has disclosed he's still waiting to hear from CSKA if his offer is acceptable.