The fan group have been at war with the club’s hierarchy this season but applauded Hoops chiefs for their latest announcement
Celtic fans at Easter Road(Image: SNS Group)
A Celtic ultras group at the forefront of anti-board protests have parked their grievances to applaud the club on an “exciting step forward”.
Bhoys Celtic have been among the most vocal fan groups demanding change at Parkhead, making their feelings towards the club’s hierarchy clear at home and away this season.
Yet despite their ongoing campaign for the removal of powerbrokers Michael Nicholson and Chris McKay, the supporters’ organisation have been granted permission to move sections at Celtic Park from next term onwards.
Currently housed directly opposite the Green Brigade’s rail seating area in the North Curve, Bhoys Celtic will stand alongside their counterparts from the start of next season.
Celtic confirmed the news in an email to impacted supporters last week after launching their season ticket renewal campaign. Some fans in section 111 vented their anger on social media at the short notice given to relocate.
Bhoys Celtic acknowledged the announcement could have been handled better by the club, but insisted the overall atmosphere at Celtic Park will benefit massively from the changes, which will see the club’s most vocal supporters united in one section.
The group also praised Celtic chiefs for accommodating the request, while again issuing a plea for a bigger standing section to be formed behind the Jock Stein Stand goal.
A statement read: “It was confirmed last week that the group will be relocating to the standing area next season. Many supporters have expressed concern on how the club has managed the process and it is important for us to clarify our position.
“Firstly, we sympathise with supporters who have been advised they will be moved. This relocation transitioned from suggestion to reality in a very short space of time.
“We became aware of the email sent to existing season ticket holders notifying them they would be relocated only after it was published.
“While the turnaround for this move understandably had to be quick, it should and could have been handled better and the club acknowledge this.
“Affected season ticket holders should have been provided with clearer information on options for next season and we would implore the club to offer redress as a matter of urgency.
“We have been led to believe that those being relocated will be able to remain in the standing section should they wish to.
“They should email railseating@celticfc.co.uk to advise of their preference and will be given priority. We are aware that many of those affected by this relocation have been supportive of the ultra groups in the past. If the group can assist in any way, we will.
“For us, the group relocating into the standing area is an exciting step forward in improving the atmosphere and support for the team at Celtic Park.
“We want a loud, vibrant and energetic Celtic Park that we can be proud of. Bringing both ultra groups and other fans together in a dedicated space designed to facilitate organised, passionate and vocal backing of the team is a refreshing step in the right direction however a first step is all it is.
“We still believe the only solution to realising the potential of Celtic Park to fully inspire the team is a ‘Celtic End’. The fan survey carried out is clear evidence of the demand for a larger standing area in some guise.
“It is our position that the club should begin to engage with interested supporters now to progress this project with a view to it becoming reality as quickly as possible and as smoothly as possible.
“For the remainder of this season we reiterate the importance of backing the team to the hilt. Every single supporter has their part to play in propelling the team forward – particularly this Sunday.”