Celtic allowed 9000 fans at Champions League qualifier

Celtic have been given permission to welcome around 9000 fans to their Champions League match next week.

The Parkhead club had asked to have 18,000 fans at the qualifier clash with Danish side Midtjylland next Tuesday.

The announcement follows Nicola Sturgeon’s confirmation that Scotland will move to level zero on Monday, meaning football stadiums can host 2000 seated fans.

But clubs can apply for permission to stage larger events.

Celtic said that it was informed of the decision following a meeting with the local Safety Advisory Group on Friday.

A club statement read: “Clearly, we have worked tirelessly in this area, we had pushed for many more fans to be given access and of course we are disappointed that more supporters will not be able to attend.

“However, we really look forward to welcoming our fans for the match on Tuesday, as we do on Saturday when we meet Preston North End.

“We can assure our supporters we will be doing all we can to work closely with the relevant authorities and welcome our fans back in even greater numbers in the coming weeks.

“We want nothing more than to welcome as many fans back to the stadium as quickly as possible, and therefore appreciate your patience as we continue to work behind the scenes to make that happen.”

Celtic said details on match ticket balloting will be announced in the 24 hours following Friday’s announcement at 1.43pm.

But the club urged fans to familiarise themselves with new protocols for reduced capacity matches, including taking a Covid-19 test before attending Celtic Park.

Manager Ange Postecoglou’s side confirmed on Friday it had signed Japan international Kyogo Furuhashi.

The 26-year-old winger joins the Hoops from J1-League club Vissel Kobe on a four-year-deal.