Celtic and Rangers received the go-ahead for the return of capacity crowds yesterday while Scotland’s other major clubs now wait to hear if they too will receive local authority approval.
After a 17-month wait, Celtic can play in front of 60,000 and Rangers 50,000 in next week’s crucial European ties after Glasgow City Council contacted them both yesterday in response to the Scottish government’s decision to ease lockdown restrictions from Monday.
The government put a 5,000 limit on outdoor gatherings but left it with local authorities to allow exemptions if they were satisfied that the correct measures were in place. Glasgow City Council was content that Rangers’ Champions League tie at home to Malmo on Tuesday, and Celtic’s home Europa League qualifier against Jablonec on Thursday, as well as all the clubs’ subsequent home games, can be played in front of full houses.
Clubs will be expected to adhere to guidelines on Covid-19 prevention, including encouraging staggered arrival times for fans, messaging supporters to use face coverings in internal areas, encouraging contactless payments at kiosks and promotion of the Protect Scotland app. But neither of the Old Firm clubs will have to apply for capacity crowds on a game-by-game basis.
In a statement Celtic chief executive Dom McKay said: “I would like to thank our fans for all the fantastic support they have given us in reaching these levels. Our team have been a leading force in Scottish sport, writing and exercising protocols and procedures to allow us to return to train and play. Now, through their hard work and leadership, we are finally welcoming you, our fans, back where you belong. I must also thank the Scottish government, Glasgow City Council and the Safety Advisory Group for their co-operation.”
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Aberdeen hope to hear a decision from Aberdeen City Council this afternoon about whether games at Pittodrie can go ahead in front of full houses. Hibernian and Hearts await similar approval from City of Edinburgh Council.
