Celtic have faced severe criticism over their training camp
Ally McCoist has become the latest in a long line of figures to criticise Celtic’s trip to Dubai.
The club’s decision to press ahead with their training camp has been the subject of intense debate since they flew out in the aftermath of last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat against Rangers at Ibrox.
Photos that circulated from the trip attracted derision from fans, many of whom were unimpressed with players and staff appearing to enjoy the sunshine just hours after a defeat that my have caused irreparable damage to their dreams of 10-in-a-row.
Beyond that, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Deputy First Minister John Swinney both expressed concern about a non-essential trip being undertaken at the height of a pandemic, with severe restrictions being implemented while Celtic were abroad.
The controversy shows no signs of abating, with Rangers legend McCoist adding to the chorus of disapproval.
Speaking on BT Sport’s Scottish Football Extra, Chris Sutton pointed to the fact that his former club had not broken any rules.
In response, McCoist said: “I hear what Chris is saying regarding not having broken any rules. Right, that’s fine, I get that.
“But, c’mon guys, in the current climate, who in their right mind thinks it’s a good idea to go to another country with a group of players when there’s just been this second bout of the virus?
“It’s a stupid idea in so many ways, so many counts.
“If the Government thought it was a good idea, why has Nicola Sturgeon asked the SFA to look into the matter? If she deals with it how it’s required, she should be dealing with it herself.
“But the fact she’s then asked the SFA would indicate to me she wants the governing body to do something about it, whether it’s have a look at it or whatever, I don’t know.
“But they’ve chosen not to do it, because potentially they’re a little bit embarrassed for, again I use the word ‘stupidity’.
“In this day and age, I can’t go up and visit my 94-year-old mother.
“Our governing bodies weren’t slow to react, rightly or wrongly, to Aberdeen players sitting round a table earlier on in the season.
“Kilmarnock players on a team bus…A lot of people, like myself, aren’t fully up on all the rules but the football clubs are.
“Getting back to Chris’ point, if there’s nothing legally wrong that’s fine.
“But nobody, nobody , on this planet will convince me that common sense should have prevailed and they shouldn’t have gone, even just for the look itself.”
Since McCoist’s comments, Celtic have confirmed a positive test within their squad.
In a statement tweeted on Sunday afternoon, the club said: “Celtic today confirmed that one player has recorded a positive test for covid-19. Clearly the player will receive all our care and full support.
“All other members of our squad, management team and backroom squad are negative.”
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