Celtic and the Green Brigade recently held talks to discuss the possible return of the Ultras to Parkhead for the title run-in.
The Green Brigade have now been banned from Celtic Park for 18 weeks after an alleged incident in the Hoops’ win over Falkirk in October appeared to push the club into taking action against the fan group.
As yet, the authorities have still not dealt with the individuals responsible for this, but somehow, 250 members of the Green Brigade remain banned in a form of collective punishment that now seems extremely excessive.
However, in the Celtic Fans Collective Ibrox statement, it appears that the Ultras will only be permitted re-entry into Paradise on the approval of Police Scotland and if they ‘place their trust in new policing and stewarding arrangements’.
But there is a catch.
Police Scotland’s unknown conditions for Green Brigade’s Celtic Park return:
As with any negotiation or discussions, there usually has to be a middle ground and compromise reached for any peaceful resolution to be achieved.
But it seems that is not the case as the Celtic Fans Collective outlined what Police Scotland want in return for the Ultras’ return to Parkhead.
The statement on X revealed, “These concerns [about Ibrox crowd control] are particularly relevant as the Green Brigade have been advised that any decision on their re-admission lies with Police Scotland.
“Should approval be granted, fans in the North Curve will be asked to place their trust in new policing and stewarding arrangements despite having no advance notice of the measures or any input into how the area will operate on a matchday.
“Recent events do little to inspire confidence in Police Scotland’s ability to design and implement such plans, and that concern was only compounded by what took place on Sunday afternoon.”
Are Celtic shooting themselves in the foot?
Celtic appear to be taking a major risk by continuing the ban on the Green Brigade, especially with the closest title race in a generation unfolding.
We all know the Celtic Ultras have their controversies but what cannot be denied is the passion, colour and atmosphere they bring to matches.
Looking at how they pushed the players on at Kilmarnock and the scenes of celebration and noise at Ibrox, the Green Brigade’s return to Celtic Park is crucial for the final five home games of the season.
Especially with the atmosphere at Paradise as flat as it has ever been, but then what do people expect after the supporters have become increasingly frustrated with what the Celtic board have overseen this season?