Celtic face UEFA inquiry

Celtic could face UEFA sanctions after fans’ chants during their Europa League win against Rennes were deemed offensive by Strathclyde Police.

The police force made UEFA aware of the chants after the game, which took place on November 3 at Parkhead with Neil Lennon’s side winning 3-1.

“We can confirm there were a number of instances during the game of singing offensive songs and inquiries are ongoing to detect the offenders,” a police spokesperson said.

The Scottish club are said to be shocked after receiving no direct feedback from the police about the claims, but they have confirmed that UEFA has asked for a response to the allegations.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell has condemned any such chants from the crowd, maintaining the issue will be dealt with, and that the club’s supporters are the best in the world.

“Chants glorifying the Provisional IRA are totally unacceptable,” he said at the club’s AGM.

“One, it is wrong, and it is an embarrassment to the club and embarrassment to the majority of supporters.”

“We have dealt with it at Celtic Park and we will do all we can to make sure it doesn’t happen home or away. We don’t want it, we don’t need it. We have the best supporters in the world and hold that reputation dear.”

The Scottish Sun reported a hearing will be held on December 8, and while the charge the club will face is currently unclear, it is believed the allegations are in reference to pro-IRA chants.