Lawwell promises hard line on sectarian abuse

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell has vowed to ban any supporters found guilty of sectarian offences from Parkhead.

He has called on supporters to continue their backing of the club’s strong anti-sectarian and anti-racism message when they go head-to-head at Parkhead this weekend.

The recent CIS Insurance Cup match saw 26 fans arrested, and they have joined forces with their arch-rivals in urging with those present to set a good example.

Lawwell said: “It has been well documented that last week’s Old Firm match saw 26 arrests for ‘sectarian’ offences.

“Two of these arrests were from the Celtic support and I can say categorically that if these people are found guilty then they will be banned indefinitely from attending Celtic’s home and away matches.

“Last week’s pre-match demonstration of Celtic’s community activity in fighting against sectarianism and racism was very well received by supporters and the club will continue to focus on projects such as Celtic Education, Sense over Sectarianism, Show Racism the Red Card and the Old Firm Alliance.

“The focus will again be on this weekend’s match and we would ask our fans for their continued backing.

“As with all matches at Celtic Park, Saturday’s game will again be well policed throughout the stadium.

“The police have again indicated that they will be monitoring any sectarian behaviour very closely and will deal with this issue very seriously.

“The police will have the full support of Celtic Football Club in dealing with sectarian behaviour should it be identified.”