Celtic Release Troubling Friday UEFA Statement
Following their match against Aston Villa in the middle of the week, Celtic received a new disciplinary notice from UEFA, which has raised questions about possible fan restrictions for the Champions League knockout stage.
The club was previously fined €20,000 for using pyrotechnics during a match against Borussia Dortmund earlier in the season, and this is the root of the problem.
That decision also carried a suspended sanction, which means Celtic could be prohibited from selling tickets to fans for one away game in UEFA competition if it occurs again within two years.
UEFA has now intervened once more after Wednesday night’s match against Villa, putting the team in danger of an away-day lockout.
The Club’s Reaction
In an attempt to contest the most recent accusation and make sure that fans are not penalized as a whole for the deeds of a select few, Celtic has stated that they will submit “robust representations” to UEFA.
The team has cautioned supporters, though, that there is a very real chance of being banned, so they should exercise caution when planning their travel for upcoming European games.
A statement from the club acknowledged the circumstances, saying:
“The Club will undoubtedly present strong arguments to UEFA and will do everything in its power to guarantee that our supporters can attend our upcoming UEFA Champions League game. But there is obviously a chance that supporters won’t be able to make it.
This is causing Brendan Rodgers’ team undue distraction. Although the focus should be on the football, the prospect of a supporter ban is a big worry for the traveling fans, as Celtic hasn’t advanced past the round of 16 since 2012–13.
As UEFA’s disciplinary procedure is completed, more information will become available, but for now, supporters must wait to find out if their next European away day is in doubt.
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