Celtic given 'timely' police reminder before derby

WHAT HAPPENED
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill said Police Scotland held a short meeting at his club on Friday to remind players and staff about their conduct ahead of Sunday's Premier Sports Cup quarter-final at Ibrox against Rangers. O'Neill described the 15-minute visit as a "timely reminder" and relayed the police message about general behaviour around the fixture.

O'Neill also outlined areas he thought the police would be concerned about — incidents on the field, fights and over-the-top celebrations — but presented those as his interpretation of what was discussed rather than as new sanctions or instructions from authorities.

KEY CONTEXT
Last season’s Scottish Cup quarter-final at Ibrox, won by Celtic after a penalty shootout, was disrupted by crowd disorder. As a result, both clubs were ordered last month to stage their next home Scottish Cup matches behind closed doors. The Scottish Professional Football League has additionally ruled that no away supporters will be allowed at Old Firm league or League Cup derbies this season. Celtic did play Rangers in the league in May, beating them 3-1 at Celtic Park.

WHY IT MATTERS
The police reminder underlines continued concern from authorities about Old Firm fixtures following the disorder at the Ibrox quarter-final. Restrictions on away supporters and recent talks with Police Scotland increase scrutiny on player and club behaviour around high-profile Glasgow derbies, with implications for matchday atmosphere and crowd management. Managerial comments also highlight the sensitivity around on-field incidents and celebrations in the current climate.

WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether any formal additional restrictions or matchday measures are announced by Police Scotland, the SPFL or either club ahead of the quarter-final. (The source records only the 15-minute police visit and related comments.)
- How both teams respond on the pitch, particularly given Celtic’s recent derby form and Rangers’ recent run of results; O'Neill noted the crowd and getting an early lead can affect the dynamic of the game.

KEY FACTS
- Police Scotland met Celtic for about 15 minutes to remind the club about general behaviour ahead of the cup tie.
- Both clubs were told last month to play their next home Scottish Cup matches behind closed doors after last season’s Ibrox quarter-final was marred by disorder.
- The SPFL has ruled no away fans will attend Old Firm league or League Cup derbies this season.
- Celtic have won the last three derbies since Rangers’ 3-1 win at Celtic Park in January; Celtic sit five points clear after six league games.
- Rangers have faced criticism from some fans over a poor start under new manager Derek McInnes, though the side were on a run of four straight wins at the time of the report.