Celtic plan for fan return rejected by Scottish government

Scottish football’s Joint Response Group (JRG) want “urgent clarification” after the Scottish government rejected Celtic’s plan to use Sunday’s game with Motherwell as a test event with fans.

Celtic wanted up to 1,000 spectators at the Scottish Premiership match but sports minister Joe Fitzpatrick has turned down the plan on Wednesday.

A crowd of 700 will be allowed at Friday’s Pro14 match between Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors at Murrayfield – the first time fans have been at a Scottish sporting event since lockdown.

"We can only assume that the Scottish Government regard a single pilot event as appropriate for both rugby and football."

JRG spokesperson.

A limited number of fans are expected to return to stadia more widely from 14 September.

However, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she wanted test events to take place before the go-ahead is given for a general return.

Ross County have confirmed they have put themselves forward to host one of those matches, with the club thought to be working towards the visit of Celtic on 12 September.

“We feel we have a group of staff with the capability to deliver a return for fans to our stadium in a safe and secure environment,” read a club statement.

Original article 26.08.20 on The BBC Sport website.

To view the original article click here