Celtic have attracted criticism over their UAE training camp
Chris Sutton has issued a defence of Celtic’s controversial trip to Dubai.
Sutton, who scored 86 goals in 199 appearances during his time at the club, believes Neil Lennon and his men were within their rights to undertake the journey.
The decision to send players and backroom staff to Dubai at the height of the coronavirus pandemic has attracted scrutiny from the Scottish government, with both First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Deputy First Minister John Swinney expressing concern.
Many fans took exception to the players enjoying the sunshine immediately after losing Saturday’s crucial match against Rangers, but Sutton insists the trip can be justified.
Speaking on the Record Celtic podcast, he said: “Due to the climate it was strange that Celtic travelled out. But having said that, I think too much has been made of this.
“It isn’t a problem if they are following the correct guidelines and the correct procedure.
“This is where there seems to be a big grey area, but Celtic have come out and said that they got the clearance from the government.
“So in that respect, what is the problem?
“Celtic fans are complaining about this, but last season going to Dubai was a trip which transformed Celtic’s season.”
“We are talking about a football club planning their season and planning their training.
“It doesn’t actually matter about the result or where they are in the league.
“It’s about doing the right thing where the management team feel they’re going to get the greatest benefit. It’s as simple as that.”
Lennon’s side resume their domestic campaign on Monday night when they welcome Hibs to Celtic Park.
The 1-0 defeat on Saturday leaves them 19 points behind Rangers as they aim to clinch 10-in-a-row, but the champions have three games in hand.
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