Chris Sutton in Celtic statement as pundit reacts after major Hoops breakthrough on rumbling controversy
The former Chelsea and Aston Villa striker has had his say on some huge news coming out of Parkhead
Chris Sutton has reacted to Celtic’s decision to lift the suspension of the Green Brigade following a five month ban of the fan group.
Originally, a six match ban was imposed on around 200 members in November after an incident against Falkirk, where supporters were claimed to be displaying ‘violent and threatening behaviour’ towards stewards and police officers. However, this was then upgraded to a subsequent ‘indefinite’ ban after several members circumvented the initial ruling and still attended matches.
Five months on, after an ongoing feud between the fan group and the club’s hierarchy, the club have now decided to lift the ban with immediate effect for the weekend’s clash with St Mirren. Upon the announcement of the split schedule, Celtic will play three further games at home between now and the end of May, against Falkirk, Rangers and Hearts respectively.
Sutton on Green Brigade ban being lifted
The former Celtic striker took to X to react to the news, making reference to Celtic’s hunt for what would be their fifth Premiership on the bounce. He said, “The Green Brigade are back in to cheer Celtic to the title.” The Hoops currently sit third place in the standings, three points adrift of league leaders Hearts and two behind Rangers. As the league nears its gripping conclusion, the return of the fan group could go a long way in terms of the club rebuilding the relationship with their fans.
The Green Brigade’s return has only been administered due to the agreement of three conditions set out by Celtic. These include that season ticket terms and conditions are adhered to, members comply with security and safety operations and that a report must be submitted the Safety Advisory Group on a match-to-match basis. Now that an agreement has been reached, the Green Brigade will be back in the stands on Thursday.
How much of an impact could the Green Brigade have on the team?
Off the field issues have been prevalent throughout the season in the east end of Glasgow, with fan protests against the board breaking out on nigh on a weekly basis. On the pitch, the Hoops have had an underwhelming season thus far, however with the league and Scottish Cup still very much within reach, a positive end to the campaign could see Celtic lift two trophies.
Hoops Chairman Brian Wilson hopes that Celtic and the fan group can continue to build bridges for the benefit of the team. He commented: “I am pleased we have reached this point where suspensions can be lifted with the agreement of Glasgow City Council Safety Advisory Group on terms which apply to supporters throughout the stadium. On that basis, a full and united Celtic Park can get behind the team at this crucial point in the season.”
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