CELTIC have issued an apology to fans over a change to security measures at Parkhead during Friday’s match against Falkirk.
But fans have hit out at the statement, labelling it ‘tone deaf’.
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Celtic had announced additional security measures in the rail seating section ahead of the 4-1 victory over Falkirk on Friday.
A statement on the club’s website said: “Please note, as an additional measure to prevent overcrowding we will be introducing concourse ticket checks which will be deployed predominantly in the North Lower and Lisbon Lions Lower Stands to ensure that concourses are kept clear and that fans remain in their correct area of the stadium.
“We would reiterate to supporters to please only attend your allocated seat for the match and please follow the directions of assisting stewards at all times.
“We would ask that supporters do not attempt to access areas of the stadium if they do not have a valid ticket for that section.”
But a further statement on Tuesday evening included an apology from the club for the negative reaction the measures received from fans.
Part of the statement said: “We are aware of certain issues raised in relation to these additional measures and would like to take this opportunity to thank a number of fans for making us aware of the specific nature of the challenges which were encountered.
“We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and we will ensure that the feedback received is factored into our modified plan moving forward.”
And fans once again voiced their displeasure, taking to X, formerly Twitter, to bash the statement.
One fan said: “This is an absolutely comical update Celtic. Folk who have met up with mates for 20 years at half time now can’t. Incredible the wedge you’re creating with fans.”
Another replied: “Whose advice are you following in regard to this being about fan safety? I can’t find any other club who treats their supporters like this.”
A third said: “We are the most tone deaf club in the world at times.”
And other supporters noted the fact that the statement was released in the middle of rivals Rangers’ defeat to Club Brugge in Champions League qualifiying.
A fan replied: “Timing of announcement is interesting.”
Another commented: “How are you managing to annoy us even through this all time hatewatch?”
Celtic’s statement in full
“Further to our communication to fans last week concerning safety measures at Celtic Park for Friday night’s match at Celtic Park, we wanted again to clearly outline ongoing arrangements within the stadium to ensure supporters are fully aware of safety plans going forward.
“Following some issues with migration to our rail seating area, the intention of introducing these measures was to encourage supporter movement which would avoid congestion at certain points within the stadium.
“The measures were put in place to ensure the safety of everyone within Celtic Park and in particular to ensure the comfort and safety of those fans who have valid tickets within the rail seating area.
“At Celtic Football Club, we are committed not only to providing a safe environment in which to enjoy football, but to also listen to supporter feedback in relation to any measures which are introduced to assess their effectiveness.
“In this regard, we are aware of certain issues raised in relation to these additional measures and would like to take this opportunity to thank a number of fans for making us aware of the specific nature of the challenges which were encountered.
“We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and we will ensure that the feedback received is factored into our modified plan moving forward.
“Furthermore, we have taken steps to refine the safety operation within the stadium to strike the appropriate balance between our overriding focus on supporter safety and fan experience.
“It is important that we reiterate to our fans the best and safest way of accessing the stadium.
“As is always the case, we would ask that supporters enter the stadium using only the turnstiles noted on your match day ticket or season card.
“Once you have entered the stadium, you are encouraged to make use of the facilities nearest your seating area.
“In order to prevent migration towards the rail seating area, additional ticket checks will be in place in this area of the stadium to ensure that only those supporters who have tickets for this area are able to enter.
“In addition, supporters should not attempt to access the rail seating area unless you have a valid ticket for this section.
“These ongoing measures are considered necessary to ensure the safety of everyone within the stadium.
“The aim of ensuring the safety of all supporters remains paramount in our planning, and we would ask again that previous advice regarding access to the stadium is noted.
“Please also note that there will be extended queue lines on Janefield Street for those supporters entering the North Stand at turnstiles 6-13 and 32-39, with a flow management system in place to ensure a smooth transition to your entry point.
“This has proved successful in the past at allowing fans to move through the turnstiles quickly.
“The safety of our fans at matches is everything to us and we will continue to do all we can to ensure your safety is ensured and that you have an enjoyable visit to Celtic Park.
“We thank you sincerely for your continued support.”
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