No Celtic clear-out, insists Lawwell

CELTIC chief executive Peter Lawwell has moved to assure supporters there will be no mass departures from the club.

The Hoops crashed out of the Tennent’s Scottish Cup with the 2-1 defeat to Clyde of the Bell’s First Division on Sunday.

Midfielder Stilian Petrov has been strongly linked with Fulham and captain Neil Lennon and striker John Hartson have also been linked with a move away from Celtic Park.

“Some of the reports I’ve seen are ridiculous,” said Lawwell.

“The result on Sunday was clearly a sore one to take, but it’s important people retain a sense of perspective.

“I’ve read various reports saying a number of our key players are heading out of the club, but I can reassure fans that there’s no truth in them.

“Contrary to some ill-informed articles, players such as Petrov, Lennon and Hartson are absolutely pivotal to the team and are going nowhere.

“Stilian has 18 months remaining on his contract, John has at least 18 months and, although Neil’s contract is up in the summer, we have had preliminary discussions with his agent on the way forward.

“Let’s not forget that, despite the obvious transition the club is going through, we’re top of the league and are determined to do everything possible to regain the championship.

“After a result like the one at the weekend, everyone’s hurting but it only makes the management and players even more determined to ensure that we deliver for our fans in the league.

“Indeed, far from selling off our best players at such a crucial time, we’re already working hard to try and further strengthen the team during the January transfer window.

“The arrival of Roy Keane was rightly hailed as a major achievement for the club and I’ve no doubt this will be underlined in the weeks and months ahead and we’re keen to make further additions if we can get quality players in the right positions.”