Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Celtic fans attack Rapid Vienna players
Celtic fans attack Rapid Vienna players in 1984 causing them to play next home Euro tie behind closed doors.
Europe's shame.
Celtic fans display sick IRA banner
Twisted fans of Celtic displayed a banner "some men fight for silver", a line taken from a PRO IRA song.
"some men fight for silver and some men fight for gold,
but the IRA are fighting for the land the Saxons stole..."
Monday, April 28, 2008
CELTIC FANS NEW SONG
Thousands of Celtic fans were yesterday witnessed to have sung
"I hope you die in your sleep Nacho Novo
I hope you die in your sleep i pray
I hope you die in your sleep Nacho Novo
With a bullet from the IRA"
Anti sectarian organisation 'Nil by Mouth' have this to say on it
Thank you for your interest in Nil by Mouth.
The Scottish PremierLeague's match observer has responsibility for reporting unacceptable conduct at matches under the SPL's jurisdiction. Any findings in this respect are normally reported publicly and we await the findings in relation to yesterday's Celtic v Rangers fixture.
This is the first complaint we have had reporting that this particular song was sung at the match and I thank you for drawing this to your attention. I personally heard some supporters singing the song in Glasgow city centre early yesterday evening and had any police officers been present at the time I would have reported it to them as a breach of the peace. The song, which I understand is sung to the tune of a Christian hymn, is in Nil by Mouth's view clearly sectarian and will understandably be offensive and upsetting to many football supporters and members of the general public.
Nil by Mouth has commented in today's Scottish Sun in relation to the t-shirt displayed by Celtic's goalkeeper at the match. We have not had any media enquiries regarding sectarian singing at the game and indeed your complaint is the only such report of this we have received. We will take your complaint into account and consider this along with any other evidence presented regarding sectarian behaviour at the match. If sectarian singing took place then we would urge the SPL and clubs involved to respond in line with the policies they have in place to challenge sectarianism. Perhaps you would consider forwarding your complaint to these organisations to encourage them to take action?
Thank you for your correspondence, the information you have provided is appreciated and useful to our campaign.
Best regards,
"A man's a man for a' that"
Robert Burns - Scottish poet
"I hope you die in your sleep Nacho Novo
I hope you die in your sleep i pray
I hope you die in your sleep Nacho Novo
With a bullet from the IRA"
Anti sectarian organisation 'Nil by Mouth' have this to say on it
Thank you for your interest in Nil by Mouth.
The Scottish PremierLeague's match observer has responsibility for reporting unacceptable conduct at matches under the SPL's jurisdiction. Any findings in this respect are normally reported publicly and we await the findings in relation to yesterday's Celtic v Rangers fixture.
This is the first complaint we have had reporting that this particular song was sung at the match and I thank you for drawing this to your attention. I personally heard some supporters singing the song in Glasgow city centre early yesterday evening and had any police officers been present at the time I would have reported it to them as a breach of the peace. The song, which I understand is sung to the tune of a Christian hymn, is in Nil by Mouth's view clearly sectarian and will understandably be offensive and upsetting to many football supporters and members of the general public.
Nil by Mouth has commented in today's Scottish Sun in relation to the t-shirt displayed by Celtic's goalkeeper at the match. We have not had any media enquiries regarding sectarian singing at the game and indeed your complaint is the only such report of this we have received. We will take your complaint into account and consider this along with any other evidence presented regarding sectarian behaviour at the match. If sectarian singing took place then we would urge the SPL and clubs involved to respond in line with the policies they have in place to challenge sectarianism. Perhaps you would consider forwarding your complaint to these organisations to encourage them to take action?
Thank you for your correspondence, the information you have provided is appreciated and useful to our campaign.
Best regards,
"A man's a man for a' that"
Robert Burns - Scottish poet
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Cowardly Celtic fans throw bricks at rival fans
Several Rangers supporters buses were bricked last night by cowardly Celtic fans in Greenhead Street, Glasgow.
CELTIC GET JOURNALIST SACKED FRON SUNDAY HERALD
Celtic complained about a journalist writing that some of their fans "would rather have a bead rattling hoppy the hound in the dugout rather than Gordon Strachan"
Here is a press release from the Sunday Herald
"CELTIC Football Club yesterday met with the Sunday Herald newspaper in relation to the recent article containing the line, 'some fans would probably rather have a bead-rattling Hoopy the Huddle Hound in the dug-out.'
During a constructive meeting with regard to this issue, the Sunday Herald has informed the club of the following:
The individual in question will no longer write a column for the Sunday Herald.
The newspaper will be printing a full unreserved apology in this Sunday's edition.
The newspaper will be responding directly and individually to all those people who have complained by letter or e-mail to the Sunday Herald on this matter.
Celtic Football Club welcomes the measures taken by the Sunday Herald."
It's interesting to note that The Nazis and Soviet / Maoist Communists also worked hard at suppressing freedom of expression
Here is a press release from the Sunday Herald
"CELTIC Football Club yesterday met with the Sunday Herald newspaper in relation to the recent article containing the line, 'some fans would probably rather have a bead-rattling Hoopy the Huddle Hound in the dug-out.'
During a constructive meeting with regard to this issue, the Sunday Herald has informed the club of the following:
The individual in question will no longer write a column for the Sunday Herald.
The newspaper will be printing a full unreserved apology in this Sunday's edition.
The newspaper will be responding directly and individually to all those people who have complained by letter or e-mail to the Sunday Herald on this matter.
Celtic Football Club welcomes the measures taken by the Sunday Herald."
It's interesting to note that The Nazis and Soviet / Maoist Communists also worked hard at suppressing freedom of expression
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
CELTIC FANS BOOS PLOT
Written by REBECCA SMITH and TRINA PORTER - Daily Mirror - April 5, 2002
CELTIC fans travelling from Northern Ireland for the club's key title match tomorrow say they will wreck a minute's silence in memory of the Queen Mum.
Hardline republican supporters have vowed they will boo loudly during the official silence at Parkhead - plunging the club and Scottish football into shame.
The claims come just days after the Mirror told how SPL bosses had refused to order clubs to play God Save the Queen to try to avoid such embarrassment.
The game will be delayed for the mark of respect.
But club bosses fear violence will erupt in the stadium after Irish fans vowed they will jeer throughout the tribute to the 101- year-old Royal, who died last Saturday................
http://www.highbeam.com/reg/reg1.aspx?full=yes&origurl=/doc/1P2-3036928.html
CELTIC fans travelling from Northern Ireland for the club's key title match tomorrow say they will wreck a minute's silence in memory of the Queen Mum.
Hardline republican supporters have vowed they will boo loudly during the official silence at Parkhead - plunging the club and Scottish football into shame.
The claims come just days after the Mirror told how SPL bosses had refused to order clubs to play God Save the Queen to try to avoid such embarrassment.
The game will be delayed for the mark of respect.
But club bosses fear violence will erupt in the stadium after Irish fans vowed they will jeer throughout the tribute to the 101- year-old Royal, who died last Saturday................
http://www.highbeam.com/reg/reg1.aspx?full=yes&origurl=/doc/1P2-3036928.html
A letter to us from an (EX) Celtic Fan
AS a soccer fan from New York who of Irish decent found myself aligned to Celtic FC but i find this blog not only fascinating but eye opening in the extreme as the facts are backed up as FACT and find myself questioning my allegiance to such a club add this to the only Celtic soccer fan to leave a comment leaves a Sectarian one. Gee you Scots do irony so well.
I may not support Rangers per say but it seems they have resecured the moral high ground as the true colors of Celtic's vile past seep through the cracks ........... Well its Manchester United for this yank please don't destroy my new club with a blog i could not stomach on making such an error in judgment ever again.
I may not support Rangers per say but it seems they have resecured the moral high ground as the true colors of Celtic's vile past seep through the cracks ........... Well its Manchester United for this yank please don't destroy my new club with a blog i could not stomach on making such an error in judgment ever again.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Celtic Fans IRA Love-In
by Gordon Waddell, Sunday Mail 31/3/08
Are Celtic's chickens coming home to roost at long last?
For too long their self-aggrandising 'Greatest Fans In The World' tag has obscured the incessant IRA love-in among sizeable chunks of their away support.
Maybe, like Rangers, some UEFA involvement and the treat of some serious action will get them to pay more than lip service to a problem they looked like trying to fix then conveniently forgot about.
Chief executive Peter Lawwell can posture all he likes for the benefit of the supporters.
But having looked at some of the footage concerned, if that's his definition of a minority, then the majority must be hell of a size.
It appears their "Seville Calculator" works in both directions when it suits the powers-that-be at Celtic.
Are Celtic's chickens coming home to roost at long last?
For too long their self-aggrandising 'Greatest Fans In The World' tag has obscured the incessant IRA love-in among sizeable chunks of their away support.
Maybe, like Rangers, some UEFA involvement and the treat of some serious action will get them to pay more than lip service to a problem they looked like trying to fix then conveniently forgot about.
Chief executive Peter Lawwell can posture all he likes for the benefit of the supporters.
But having looked at some of the footage concerned, if that's his definition of a minority, then the majority must be hell of a size.
It appears their "Seville Calculator" works in both directions when it suits the powers-that-be at Celtic.
Celtic fans riot at Ibrox 1962
http://ssa.nls.uk/film.cfm?fid=T0673
Ibrox pitch invasion during the second half of the 1962 Scottish Cup Final semi-final match between Celtic and St Mirren, match abandoned and mounted police arrive. [Celtic were losing 3 - 0 to St. Mirren at the time].
Ibrox pitch invasion during the second half of the 1962 Scottish Cup Final semi-final match between Celtic and St Mirren, match abandoned and mounted police arrive. [Celtic were losing 3 - 0 to St. Mirren at the time].
Friday, March 28, 2008
BBC report sectarian chanting
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/7318430.stm
Uefa is examining videos appearing to show Celtic supporters involved in sectarian chanting in Barcelona.
A Uefa spokesman confirmed the footage included singing outside and inside the Nou Camp for the Champions League last-16 match on 4 March.
"We have received some footage showing Celtic supporters singing some alleged anti-Queen and pro-IRA songs - sectarian songs," he said.
"If the investigation is conclusive, a disciplinary case would be opened."
Several videos have been brought to Uefa's attention, including film of supporters at the 'fan-zone' designated for travelling supporters.
"We take care of all manifestations of sectarian singing," the Uefa spokesman added.
"The only condition is that it must be in the immediate surrounding area of the stadium. There was alleged sectarian singing inside the stadium.
"It will depend on the easiness of having these songs understood and the quest of finding other evidence."
Uefa is examining videos appearing to show Celtic supporters involved in sectarian chanting in Barcelona.
A Uefa spokesman confirmed the footage included singing outside and inside the Nou Camp for the Champions League last-16 match on 4 March.
"We have received some footage showing Celtic supporters singing some alleged anti-Queen and pro-IRA songs - sectarian songs," he said.
"If the investigation is conclusive, a disciplinary case would be opened."
Several videos have been brought to Uefa's attention, including film of supporters at the 'fan-zone' designated for travelling supporters.
"We take care of all manifestations of sectarian singing," the Uefa spokesman added.
"The only condition is that it must be in the immediate surrounding area of the stadium. There was alleged sectarian singing inside the stadium.
"It will depend on the easiness of having these songs understood and the quest of finding other evidence."
Celtic fan/journalist attacks late footballer
A Scottish journalist is believed to have used his editorial friend at the Sun newspaper to print a story attempting to blacken the name of late Rangers legend Sam English. For reasons unknown to anyone but himself freelance journalist Paul Drury decided to pen the damning story which when read you are lead to believe that Sam was at fault for the sad death of Celtic goalkeeper John Thomson.
The story written by Drury was touted around all the newspapers in Scotland. None of them thought the story was worthy of printing except his friend at the Sun.
In case you are unaware of the history behind the article Mr Thomson died tragically during a Glasgow derby on September 5th 1931. In a brave attempt to win possession Mr Thomson collided head first with Mr Sam English’s knee with fatal consequences.
Once familiar with the incident it is clear that the death of Mr Thomson was a most tragic accident. We should not allow Mr Thomson’s memory to be degraded or used as a pawn in the minds of those who wish to see hatred or intent to harm when it was not there.
Anyone with a basic knowledge of the facts surrounding the untimely death of Mr John Thomson should be able to tell that Mr Drury’s article is imbalanced and essentially misleading.
Till the day Sam died in Vale of Leven Hospital of motor neurone disease on April 12th 1967 aged 58 English was haunted by the accidental death of Mr Thomson.
I have enclosed a copy of the article to judge for yourself.
------------------------------------------------------
If your are in any doubt where Drury's allegiances below is an extract taken own website, www.medianow.co.uk
"Paul Drury's connections with Celtic Football Club earned him a place on the Testimonial Committee for club captain, Tom Boyd. Tom's year culminated in a money-spinning tie with Manchester United at Celtic Park, a game televised live on Channel 5 yet still attended by 58,000 supporters. To ensure maximum exposure, Paul promoted the match using exclusive interviews with Sir Alex Ferguson, top striker Henrik Larsson and club manager, Martin O'Neill."
------------------------------------------------------
To show that all Celtic fans don't have a deep rooted hate of their greater rivals below is a honest well written piece by Celtic supporter known as Kevtic who posted the below on Celtic fansite Kerrydale Street on 12 Apr 2007.
John Thomson - Sam English (A haunted man)
"I’m not usually one to start a thread about Rangers but given the number of attempts by the darkside to slander and smear the good name of our heroes and legends in some kind of bizarre point scoring exercise I thought I’d redress the balance and show that we do not need to stoop to their level and can rise above their deep rooted hatred of all things Celtic and set straight a story and a lie that is over 70 years old.
All of us should know and recognise the name Sam English, a name that will forever be entwined with the history of Celtic and of course John Thomson. Recently I finally got round to reading one of my xmas presents, Tom Greig’s excellent book ‘My Search for Celtic’s John’ (a book I can highly recommend) and I was surprised to discover as he described that fateful day and the aftermath that some people were under the impression that John Thomson’s injury was caused by a ‘deliberate’ kick to the head. I don’t know if it was just me but from the first time I had heard about the tragedy I’d always been told that it was just a tragic accident and no one was to blame. This was the first time I’d heard a conflicting story and after some further research into the subject found out this alternative story was completely untrue but that some regarded this version of events as the truth.
There is a reason that this untruth may have slipped into the realm of fact though. When Thomson was admitted to the Victoria Infirmary the patient’s notes included the phrase ‘the patient was admitted having received, it was stated, a kick on the head’. There was no name attached to this statement and may have been a result of no one knowing the exact truth at the time of the notes being written. However it appears that this was enough for a lie to take root and to this day some still regard it as fact. In addition Willie Maley made a rather ambiguous statement at the fatal accident enquiry when asked ‘In your opinion, was it an accident?’ and his reply was ‘I hope it was an accident. I cannot form an opinion as to what happened as I did not actually see the accident’. Some saw this as a serious aspersion on the character of Sam English but many regard this statement as coming from a grief stricken man whose words were not intended to be interpreted as they were. Many felt this added credence to the ‘deliberate kick’ assumption.
The evidence to back up the fact that the whole incident was nothing but a tragic accident though is overwhelming not least that the fact that the fatal accident enquiry returned a verdict of accidental death. Not one of the players on the park that day or any member of Thomson’s family held English responsible for the accident. Indeed English met Thomson’s parents twice and the Thomson family also published a letter in the Lochgelly Times on the day of Thomson’s funeral publicly exonerated English of any responsibility for the accident. It was a sign of the Thomson’s strength of character that despite losing their son at such a young age they still found time to give comfort to English and realised the burden he was to carry for the rest of his life.
Sadly this wasn’t enough to stop English being taunted by supporters and players throughout the rest of his career. English was only 23 when the accident happened and only a few months older than Thomson. He only signed for Rangers in the summer of 1931 after his goal scoring exploits for Yoker Athletic had alerted them to his talents. It seemed a long and successful career lay before him and the game against Celtic was his first derby in only his 7th competitive game for Rangers. There are many accounts of what happened that day but all eyewitness accounts surrounding the incident itself state that English got a shot at goal as Thomson came out to block and Thomson deflected the ball away for what should have been a corner but his momentum carried him into English where his temple comes into contact with English’s knee and thus his fate was sealed. At no point did English’s foot make any contact with Thomson’s head. This scenario is also supported by photographic evidence.
The Rangers manager of the time Bill Struth, not often held in high regard by Celtic fans, has to be commended during this time as he took the responsibility to send a car for Thomson’s parents in Fife once the seriousness of the situation became clear and he along with Rangers captain Meiklejohn and English visited Thomson’s parents a few weeks later. It was also Struth who decided to play English in the game immediately after Thomson’s funeral adopting the ‘best to get back on the horse’ approach and by the end of the season English had scored 44 goals (still a record for a Rangers player) and he had also won a couple of Northern Ireland caps but despite his exploits he could not forget that fateful moment and his play began to suffer as his heart was not in it. A move to Liverpool was hoped might give him a fresh start but limited success saw him return to play for Queen of the South before finishing his career at Hartlepool at the age of 28.
All through the remainder of his football career English found he could not escape the tragedy. Almost every team he played against used the death of Thomson to their advantage and he was constantly taunted about it and it didn’t stop after he left the pitch both he and his wife were victims of shameful accusations and later this was turned against his children and his grandchildren. Of course there were also many hundreds and thousands of people who absolved him of any responsibility and supported him through difficult times. These of course included many decent Celtic fans.
Having played football myself for over 20 years the worst injury I can ever remember inflicting on an opponent was a broken nose and I felt really bad about that even though it was accidental. I can’t even begin to understand what English must have felt throughout his life and the ignorance of those who sought to gain an advantage or to inflict more misery on him and his family by continually taunting and reminding him of the tragedy. There are many, including Celtic fans, who should feel ashamed at the treatment English received after Thomson’s death.
Sam English died in Vale of Leven Hospital of motor neurone disease on April 12th 1967 aged 58.
I decided I’d wait until the 40th anniversary of his death to post this story and if what I’ve written above changes the opinions of just one person then it will have been a worthwhile exercise.
On that fateful day on September 5th 1931 not one but two men were victims of a terrible tragedy.
Sam English RIP"
The story written by Drury was touted around all the newspapers in Scotland. None of them thought the story was worthy of printing except his friend at the Sun.
In case you are unaware of the history behind the article Mr Thomson died tragically during a Glasgow derby on September 5th 1931. In a brave attempt to win possession Mr Thomson collided head first with Mr Sam English’s knee with fatal consequences.
Once familiar with the incident it is clear that the death of Mr Thomson was a most tragic accident. We should not allow Mr Thomson’s memory to be degraded or used as a pawn in the minds of those who wish to see hatred or intent to harm when it was not there.
Anyone with a basic knowledge of the facts surrounding the untimely death of Mr John Thomson should be able to tell that Mr Drury’s article is imbalanced and essentially misleading.
Till the day Sam died in Vale of Leven Hospital of motor neurone disease on April 12th 1967 aged 58 English was haunted by the accidental death of Mr Thomson.
I have enclosed a copy of the article to judge for yourself.
------------------------------------------------------
If your are in any doubt where Drury's allegiances below is an extract taken own website, www.medianow.co.uk
"Paul Drury's connections with Celtic Football Club earned him a place on the Testimonial Committee for club captain, Tom Boyd. Tom's year culminated in a money-spinning tie with Manchester United at Celtic Park, a game televised live on Channel 5 yet still attended by 58,000 supporters. To ensure maximum exposure, Paul promoted the match using exclusive interviews with Sir Alex Ferguson, top striker Henrik Larsson and club manager, Martin O'Neill."
------------------------------------------------------
To show that all Celtic fans don't have a deep rooted hate of their greater rivals below is a honest well written piece by Celtic supporter known as Kevtic who posted the below on Celtic fansite Kerrydale Street on 12 Apr 2007.
John Thomson - Sam English (A haunted man)
"I’m not usually one to start a thread about Rangers but given the number of attempts by the darkside to slander and smear the good name of our heroes and legends in some kind of bizarre point scoring exercise I thought I’d redress the balance and show that we do not need to stoop to their level and can rise above their deep rooted hatred of all things Celtic and set straight a story and a lie that is over 70 years old.
All of us should know and recognise the name Sam English, a name that will forever be entwined with the history of Celtic and of course John Thomson. Recently I finally got round to reading one of my xmas presents, Tom Greig’s excellent book ‘My Search for Celtic’s John’ (a book I can highly recommend) and I was surprised to discover as he described that fateful day and the aftermath that some people were under the impression that John Thomson’s injury was caused by a ‘deliberate’ kick to the head. I don’t know if it was just me but from the first time I had heard about the tragedy I’d always been told that it was just a tragic accident and no one was to blame. This was the first time I’d heard a conflicting story and after some further research into the subject found out this alternative story was completely untrue but that some regarded this version of events as the truth.
There is a reason that this untruth may have slipped into the realm of fact though. When Thomson was admitted to the Victoria Infirmary the patient’s notes included the phrase ‘the patient was admitted having received, it was stated, a kick on the head’. There was no name attached to this statement and may have been a result of no one knowing the exact truth at the time of the notes being written. However it appears that this was enough for a lie to take root and to this day some still regard it as fact. In addition Willie Maley made a rather ambiguous statement at the fatal accident enquiry when asked ‘In your opinion, was it an accident?’ and his reply was ‘I hope it was an accident. I cannot form an opinion as to what happened as I did not actually see the accident’. Some saw this as a serious aspersion on the character of Sam English but many regard this statement as coming from a grief stricken man whose words were not intended to be interpreted as they were. Many felt this added credence to the ‘deliberate kick’ assumption.
The evidence to back up the fact that the whole incident was nothing but a tragic accident though is overwhelming not least that the fact that the fatal accident enquiry returned a verdict of accidental death. Not one of the players on the park that day or any member of Thomson’s family held English responsible for the accident. Indeed English met Thomson’s parents twice and the Thomson family also published a letter in the Lochgelly Times on the day of Thomson’s funeral publicly exonerated English of any responsibility for the accident. It was a sign of the Thomson’s strength of character that despite losing their son at such a young age they still found time to give comfort to English and realised the burden he was to carry for the rest of his life.
Sadly this wasn’t enough to stop English being taunted by supporters and players throughout the rest of his career. English was only 23 when the accident happened and only a few months older than Thomson. He only signed for Rangers in the summer of 1931 after his goal scoring exploits for Yoker Athletic had alerted them to his talents. It seemed a long and successful career lay before him and the game against Celtic was his first derby in only his 7th competitive game for Rangers. There are many accounts of what happened that day but all eyewitness accounts surrounding the incident itself state that English got a shot at goal as Thomson came out to block and Thomson deflected the ball away for what should have been a corner but his momentum carried him into English where his temple comes into contact with English’s knee and thus his fate was sealed. At no point did English’s foot make any contact with Thomson’s head. This scenario is also supported by photographic evidence.
The Rangers manager of the time Bill Struth, not often held in high regard by Celtic fans, has to be commended during this time as he took the responsibility to send a car for Thomson’s parents in Fife once the seriousness of the situation became clear and he along with Rangers captain Meiklejohn and English visited Thomson’s parents a few weeks later. It was also Struth who decided to play English in the game immediately after Thomson’s funeral adopting the ‘best to get back on the horse’ approach and by the end of the season English had scored 44 goals (still a record for a Rangers player) and he had also won a couple of Northern Ireland caps but despite his exploits he could not forget that fateful moment and his play began to suffer as his heart was not in it. A move to Liverpool was hoped might give him a fresh start but limited success saw him return to play for Queen of the South before finishing his career at Hartlepool at the age of 28.
All through the remainder of his football career English found he could not escape the tragedy. Almost every team he played against used the death of Thomson to their advantage and he was constantly taunted about it and it didn’t stop after he left the pitch both he and his wife were victims of shameful accusations and later this was turned against his children and his grandchildren. Of course there were also many hundreds and thousands of people who absolved him of any responsibility and supported him through difficult times. These of course included many decent Celtic fans.
Having played football myself for over 20 years the worst injury I can ever remember inflicting on an opponent was a broken nose and I felt really bad about that even though it was accidental. I can’t even begin to understand what English must have felt throughout his life and the ignorance of those who sought to gain an advantage or to inflict more misery on him and his family by continually taunting and reminding him of the tragedy. There are many, including Celtic fans, who should feel ashamed at the treatment English received after Thomson’s death.
Sam English died in Vale of Leven Hospital of motor neurone disease on April 12th 1967 aged 58.
I decided I’d wait until the 40th anniversary of his death to post this story and if what I’ve written above changes the opinions of just one person then it will have been a worthwhile exercise.
On that fateful day on September 5th 1931 not one but two men were victims of a terrible tragedy.
Sam English RIP"
Celtic facing a UEFA rap
Fron the Scottish Sun 28/3/08
"Celtic are facing a UEFA rap after sick fans were filmed belting out bigoted chants in Barcelona
Scores of boozy morons were caught screaming f*** the Queen and pro-IRA slogans during a giant outdoor bash thrown for the recent Champions League clash.
A string of the hate-filled mobile phone clips quickly sprang up on the internet. And now the Parkhead club could be hauled before Euro football chiefs to explain the shameful scenes.
Last night a UEFA spokesman said "The disciplinary department has opened an investigation following their watching and assessment of the footage."
Around 10,000 Hoops fans invaded Barcelona earlier this month for the match,which the Spanish side won 1-0, but a minority of yobs trashed the reputation of decent supporters.
Several vile videos were even shot at the official Celtic Meeting Point fans' zone - as well as various bars.
A UEFA source said "If the investigation is conclusive, it will turn into a disciplinary case"
"Celtic are facing a UEFA rap after sick fans were filmed belting out bigoted chants in Barcelona
Scores of boozy morons were caught screaming f*** the Queen and pro-IRA slogans during a giant outdoor bash thrown for the recent Champions League clash.
A string of the hate-filled mobile phone clips quickly sprang up on the internet. And now the Parkhead club could be hauled before Euro football chiefs to explain the shameful scenes.
Last night a UEFA spokesman said "The disciplinary department has opened an investigation following their watching and assessment of the footage."
Around 10,000 Hoops fans invaded Barcelona earlier this month for the match,which the Spanish side won 1-0, but a minority of yobs trashed the reputation of decent supporters.
Several vile videos were even shot at the official Celtic Meeting Point fans' zone - as well as various bars.
A UEFA source said "If the investigation is conclusive, it will turn into a disciplinary case"
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Celtic fans taunt Gretna players
Celtic supporters once again show the world just why they call themselves "The Greatest Fans In The World"
They sing about being "faithful through and through" yet only sell 2500 tickets from a possible 7000 for an important League game against a team who needs financial support. They then wave money at these players.............no class, no dignity.
We hope Gretna players and Gretna fans NEVER forget what Celtic FC supporters are all about.
d
They sing about being "faithful through and through" yet only sell 2500 tickets from a possible 7000 for an important League game against a team who needs financial support. They then wave money at these players.............no class, no dignity.
We hope Gretna players and Gretna fans NEVER forget what Celtic FC supporters are all about.
d
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Andy Walker exposes Celtic Supporters Club involvement in theft
as written by Celtic Legend Andy Walker - March 2008
"I went to a Celtic supporters' dance with Tommy Burns and our wives one Saturday night and it's something Carol and I still laugh about today.
Tommy picked us up in his new Audi and it was just another Saturday night for him, a supporters' bash, this time in Springburn.
We happily spent time chatting to the Celtic fans and heard about what they thought of the team and how much they craved success.
A good time was had by all but when we left around midnight we quickly discovered Tam's car had been broken into and his stereo ripped out and stolen.
The committee men were informed and were obviously apologetic.
"Just come in for one last quick drink and we'll see what we can do," was the strange offer.
Within 15 minutes the stereo was back in Tommy's car, the culprit had been identified and given a slap for damaging a Celtic star's motor!
These days players at the top level tend to have an inflated idea of their own celebrity.
A bit of time spent with people who make sacrifices every week to support their team might make them realise how lucky they are.'"
"I went to a Celtic supporters' dance with Tommy Burns and our wives one Saturday night and it's something Carol and I still laugh about today.
Tommy picked us up in his new Audi and it was just another Saturday night for him, a supporters' bash, this time in Springburn.
We happily spent time chatting to the Celtic fans and heard about what they thought of the team and how much they craved success.
A good time was had by all but when we left around midnight we quickly discovered Tam's car had been broken into and his stereo ripped out and stolen.
The committee men were informed and were obviously apologetic.
"Just come in for one last quick drink and we'll see what we can do," was the strange offer.
Within 15 minutes the stereo was back in Tommy's car, the culprit had been identified and given a slap for damaging a Celtic star's motor!
These days players at the top level tend to have an inflated idea of their own celebrity.
A bit of time spent with people who make sacrifices every week to support their team might make them realise how lucky they are.'"
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Barcelona TV get their own back at shameful Celtic fans
After yet another shameful show on the road a Spanish TV show broadcast how they now view Celtic fans after their visit to Barcelona.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
More reports of IRA chanting in Barcelona
from 4-4-2 Wednesday 05 March 2008 14:43
"Celtic fans loudly eulogised the IRA in those same bars months later – not that the Catalans, who view noisy inebriation as weakness and not a virtue, were aware of the nuances of fan culture."
"Celtic fans loudly eulogised the IRA in those same bars months later – not that the Catalans, who view noisy inebriation as weakness and not a virtue, were aware of the nuances of fan culture."
Monday, March 3, 2008
Celtic Fans organise IRA bash in Barcelona
Celtic Fans organise pro IRA bash in Barcelona.Also below is a picture taken from the website of a Celtic fan band mimicking a gun - "greatest fans in the world" indeed.
See more disturbing images here http://www.celticineurope.com/shebeen2.html
http://www.celticineurope.com/
Celtic Fans Chant IRA bile in Barcelona
by Alan Carson, 3rd March 2007 The Sun
Locals in Barcelona were disgusted to hear chants of "I.R.A" in one of their local establishments.
Locals in Barcelona were disgusted to hear chants of "I.R.A" in one of their local establishments.
Monday, February 25, 2008
More disgraceful sectarian abuse
Celtic Fans' songbook was distasteful at best and sectarian at its worst. In a five-minute burst during one of the many lulls in Celtic's play, they chanted about how Artur Boruc hates the Huns', made reference to orange bastards' and mocked the sectioning of Paul Gascoigne under the Mental Health Act with chants of let's all laugh at Gazza' and Gazza's a psycho'.
DARRYL BROADFOOT, The Herald, February 25 2008
DARRYL BROADFOOT, The Herald, February 25 2008
Monday, February 4, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Newcastle doorman attacked by Celtic fans
Scots charged after clash with doorman
Jan 25 2007 By Brenda Hickman, The Evening Chronicle
A bar doorman suffered cuts to his head in an alleged bottle attack involving Celtic football fans.
Violence reportedly broke out after a group supporters from the Glasgow-based club had been drinking in Newcastle's City Vaults bar before Toon legend Alan Shearer's testimonial game at St James' Park.
Thousands of Celtic fans travelled to the city to watch the match which attracted a 52,000-strong crowd to bid an emotional farewell to the Magpie hero on May 11.
A group of up to 39 Scots made their way to the Bigg Market bar before the game and had been drinking there at about 7.45pm.
Drunken disorder is alleged to have broken out and a number of men were in the process of being ejected by door staff when further violence erupted in the foyer and spilled out on to the street.
In the brawl, which involved up to 10 men, four security staff were injured, one seriously.
Ian Sewell was left covered in blood needing hospital treatment for cuts to his head and face.
Four Celtic fans were arrested at the time by Northumbria police who were called to the scene.
A number of others in the group fled the Bigg Market following the alleged assault.
A Newcastle CID spokesman said: "Two men have now been charged with wounding and have been bailed to appear before Newcastle magistrates next Tuesday".
Robert McKernon, 39, of Saltcoates, and Gary Taylor, 24, of Ardrossan, both Ayrshire, were jointly charged on Tuesday with causing grievous bodily harm.
Mr Sewell has since made a recovery from his injuries and is understood to have gone back to work.
There was no football-related violence reported to Newcastle police before or after the game.
Celtic stars played a Shearer team of past and present greats. City Vaults is one of Newcastle's most popular fans' bars.
It is usually packed with supporters when live football is screened there.
The former Toon skipper shared the £1.64m raised from his testimonial among 14 charities and good causes.
A spokesman for the Ultimate Leisure Group, which owns City Vaults, said: "Two of our doorstaff were injured in the incident.
"One received stab injuries to his head, ear and chest for which he was treated in hospital.
"He returned after 10 weeks. Another staff was injured but returned after treatment on the night."
Jan 25 2007 By Brenda Hickman, The Evening Chronicle
A bar doorman suffered cuts to his head in an alleged bottle attack involving Celtic football fans.
Violence reportedly broke out after a group supporters from the Glasgow-based club had been drinking in Newcastle's City Vaults bar before Toon legend Alan Shearer's testimonial game at St James' Park.
Thousands of Celtic fans travelled to the city to watch the match which attracted a 52,000-strong crowd to bid an emotional farewell to the Magpie hero on May 11.
A group of up to 39 Scots made their way to the Bigg Market bar before the game and had been drinking there at about 7.45pm.
Drunken disorder is alleged to have broken out and a number of men were in the process of being ejected by door staff when further violence erupted in the foyer and spilled out on to the street.
In the brawl, which involved up to 10 men, four security staff were injured, one seriously.
Ian Sewell was left covered in blood needing hospital treatment for cuts to his head and face.
Four Celtic fans were arrested at the time by Northumbria police who were called to the scene.
A number of others in the group fled the Bigg Market following the alleged assault.
A Newcastle CID spokesman said: "Two men have now been charged with wounding and have been bailed to appear before Newcastle magistrates next Tuesday".
Robert McKernon, 39, of Saltcoates, and Gary Taylor, 24, of Ardrossan, both Ayrshire, were jointly charged on Tuesday with causing grievous bodily harm.
Mr Sewell has since made a recovery from his injuries and is understood to have gone back to work.
There was no football-related violence reported to Newcastle police before or after the game.
Celtic stars played a Shearer team of past and present greats. City Vaults is one of Newcastle's most popular fans' bars.
It is usually packed with supporters when live football is screened there.
The former Toon skipper shared the £1.64m raised from his testimonial among 14 charities and good causes.
A spokesman for the Ultimate Leisure Group, which owns City Vaults, said: "Two of our doorstaff were injured in the incident.
"One received stab injuries to his head, ear and chest for which he was treated in hospital.
"He returned after 10 weeks. Another staff was injured but returned after treatment on the night."
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Jeweller hurt in 'vicious' attack by Celtic fans
By BBC, Tuesday, 15 January 2008, 11:34 GMT
A female jeweller has suffered eye injuries after being attacked in a "vicious" robbery.
The woman had a "substance" thrown into her face before being dragged to the ground and punched repeatedly in the face by two men on Monday afternoon.
Her attackers escaped from the Diamond Studio in Glasgow's Argyll Arcade with a number of TechnoMarine watches worth a five-figure sum of money.
Their victim was taken to hospital where she was treated for eye injuries.
She was later released but is expected to return to the hospital on Tuesday to see an eye specialist.
It is not yet known whether she has suffered any lasting damage to her eyes.
The two robbers had first visited the Diamond Studio at about 1515 GMT, and spoke to the jeweller about watches they appeared to be interested in.
They returned about an hour later, and attacked the 43-year-old woman.
Her screams were heard by neighbouring jewellers, who contacted the emergency services.
Both the suspects are white males aged between 18 and 21.
'Premeditated attack'
The first is described as being around 5ft 10in tall, with a stocky build and dark brown hair and wearing a black hooded top and black jogging bottoms.
The second suspect is described as being about 6ft tall, dark brown hair and wearing dark clothing and a white Celtic skip cap.
It is thought they headed south in Buchanan Street after stealing the watches.
Det Insp Andy McWilliam from Stewart Street CID appealed for witnesses to the attack to come forward.
He said: "This was a vicious, premeditated attack on a defenceless woman who has been left extremely traumatised and badly hurt."
A female jeweller has suffered eye injuries after being attacked in a "vicious" robbery.
The woman had a "substance" thrown into her face before being dragged to the ground and punched repeatedly in the face by two men on Monday afternoon.
Her attackers escaped from the Diamond Studio in Glasgow's Argyll Arcade with a number of TechnoMarine watches worth a five-figure sum of money.
Their victim was taken to hospital where she was treated for eye injuries.
She was later released but is expected to return to the hospital on Tuesday to see an eye specialist.
It is not yet known whether she has suffered any lasting damage to her eyes.
The two robbers had first visited the Diamond Studio at about 1515 GMT, and spoke to the jeweller about watches they appeared to be interested in.
They returned about an hour later, and attacked the 43-year-old woman.
Her screams were heard by neighbouring jewellers, who contacted the emergency services.
Both the suspects are white males aged between 18 and 21.
'Premeditated attack'
The first is described as being around 5ft 10in tall, with a stocky build and dark brown hair and wearing a black hooded top and black jogging bottoms.
The second suspect is described as being about 6ft tall, dark brown hair and wearing dark clothing and a white Celtic skip cap.
It is thought they headed south in Buchanan Street after stealing the watches.
Det Insp Andy McWilliam from Stewart Street CID appealed for witnesses to the attack to come forward.
He said: "This was a vicious, premeditated attack on a defenceless woman who has been left extremely traumatised and badly hurt."
Monday, January 14, 2008
More Celtic fans' sickening behaviour documented
By Martin Samuel, The Times
On January 2, 1971, at the end of an Old Firm derby, 66 Rangers supporters were killed in a crush leaving Ibrox stadium. When the fixture fell on the same date 27 years later, it was considered fitting to respect one minute’s silence for the victims.
The only problem was the match was at Celtic Park. I was there. A solemn announcement was made, the referee’s whistle blew and silence descended, at which point a loud voice, audible throughout the ground, shouted: “Sunday, bloody Sunday, f*** ’em all” and chaos ensued.
There will be commemorations for the dead of the Munich air disaster at Old Trafford on February 10. The visiting team that day will be Manchester City. I am sure the majority of away supporters will be impeccably behaved, but it only takes one idiot. If the Premier League can fix the fixtures to give us a trumped-up Super Sunday for the television cameras every few months, surely they could have come up with a pairing less volatile than this?
On January 2, 1971, at the end of an Old Firm derby, 66 Rangers supporters were killed in a crush leaving Ibrox stadium. When the fixture fell on the same date 27 years later, it was considered fitting to respect one minute’s silence for the victims.
The only problem was the match was at Celtic Park. I was there. A solemn announcement was made, the referee’s whistle blew and silence descended, at which point a loud voice, audible throughout the ground, shouted: “Sunday, bloody Sunday, f*** ’em all” and chaos ensued.
There will be commemorations for the dead of the Munich air disaster at Old Trafford on February 10. The visiting team that day will be Manchester City. I am sure the majority of away supporters will be impeccably behaved, but it only takes one idiot. If the Premier League can fix the fixtures to give us a trumped-up Super Sunday for the television cameras every few months, surely they could have come up with a pairing less volatile than this?
Friday, January 11, 2008
Celtic Player labels Celtic fans "Reptiles"
Ian Wright has lifted the lid on the mutiny at Celtic which led to the departure of coach John Barnes. A half-time dressing-room bust-up which preceded the Hoops' embarrassing 3-1 home Scottish Cup reverse to First Division side Inverness Caledonian Thistle proved to be Barnes' final game in charge.
I just can't help thinking a lot of people have finally got what they wanted - John Barnes sacked
Ian Wright
"The dressing-room is sacrosanct and I don't intend to reveal secrets.
"But I will say I have never witnessed anything like it in my entire career for club and country. It was shocking," said Wright, who has since been ditched by director of football Kenny Dalglish and has now joined Second Division side Burnley.
The former Arsenal player also launched a fierce attack on a minority of Celtic supporters who rounded on him during his short loan spell at the Scottish club.
"I felt I was caught up in a war crisis in Kosovo not involved in a football result that wrecked John Barnes' career as Celtic manager.
"Some so-called fans, a few morons who know nothing better, covered my car in spit, they were shouting obscenities at myself and Regi Blinker.
"They were screaming at me to get back to London, to clear off out of the place and that I didn't deserve to wear their colours. It was stone age stuff from reptiles."
Wright and keeper Jonathan Gould have both left the club since Barnes' departure.
"I just can't help thinking a lot of people have finally got what they wanted - John Barnes sacked," he said.
"Celtic won nine of their first 10 games yet as soon as we lost our first there were rumblings.
"One game, one single, solitary game.
"I believe that John simply did not get a fair crack of the whip as coach.
"There was always someone waiting to slag him off and now they've got what the wanted," he told the Sun.
Wright said Barnes did not receive full backing from the Celtic management from the moment he arrived at Celtic Park nine months ago.
"You can't tell me people were not gunning for him.
"Those nine wins on the spin were a better start to the season than the last time Celtic won the title.
"Not for me, Barnes' sacking has little to do with his ability as a coach."
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sport/football/643498.stm
Ex Celtic players take on Celtic Supporters
"I do not regret my move to Rangers to this day, I just couldn't put up with another 4 seasons of the bigotry I saw at Parkhead". Copyright Mo Johnston.
Below is a video of how that shows Rangers fans' love for Super Mo dispelling any nonsense that Rangers Supporters are anti Catholic.
Below is a video of how that shows Rangers fans' love for Super Mo dispelling any nonsense that Rangers Supporters are anti Catholic.
Celtic Fans Attacks Rangers Player
Celtic go down 3-0 at Celtic Park and one of "The Greatest Fans In The World" (copyright Shame FC) invades park and attacks Rangers goalkeeper Ally Maxwell.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Sectarian abuse by Celtic fans towards AC Milan players
Celtic fans try to intimidate AC Milan players but fail and resort to hurling sectarian abuse at Rino Gattuso.
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=d5VgOumuNhs
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=d5VgOumuNhs
Celtic Goalkeeper shows his support for IRA
Celtic goalkeeper Arthur Borat show his support foe the IRA by showing the number 1916 (the year the IRA was formed).
Jeanette Findlay audio
For anyone whos hasn't heard it here is the audio of Jeanette Findlay from the Celtic Bomb Throwers Trust
http://www.zshare.net/audio/5035175ed58a02/
Here some of the atrocities supported by Jeanette Findlay
http://www.iraatrocities.fsnet.co.uk
http://www.zshare.net/audio/5035175ed58a02/
Here some of the atrocities supported by Jeanette Findlay
http://www.iraatrocities.fsnet.co.uk
Friday, November 23, 2007
Celtic Doc Lacks A Degree Of Sense
Daily Record 23/11/07
WELL done Dr Jeanette Findlay for confirming my belief that a university degree doesn't necessarily guarantee brains.
The woman lacks basic intelligence as well as common sense. But it's her sheer arrogance which gets me.
So she thinks she is "more aware of the issues" surrounding sectarianism than the common proles?
On the evidence, a debatable point, Doctor.
However she seems to be ignorant of the issues surrounding terrorism.
Someone with an Irish accent who bombs innocent civilians is no more justified than those who ignited bombs in the London underground.
Neither should be glorified anywhere in any shape, form or song.
WELL done Dr Jeanette Findlay for confirming my belief that a university degree doesn't necessarily guarantee brains.
The woman lacks basic intelligence as well as common sense. But it's her sheer arrogance which gets me.
So she thinks she is "more aware of the issues" surrounding sectarianism than the common proles?
On the evidence, a debatable point, Doctor.
However she seems to be ignorant of the issues surrounding terrorism.
Someone with an Irish accent who bombs innocent civilians is no more justified than those who ignited bombs in the London underground.
Neither should be glorified anywhere in any shape, form or song.
Celtic done no favours by Findlay's own goal
By Alasdair Reid, Daily Telegraph
On the basis that she is employed by one of Scotland's leading academic institutions, it is probably fair to assume that Glasgow University economics lecturer Dr Jeanette Findlay is likely to be a formidably intelligent individual.
On the strength of her remarks to Nicky Campbell on Radio Five Live's breakfast show the other day, however, it seems abundantly clear that her specialist field cannot be one that relies on a gift for joined-up thinking.
Dr Findlay chairs the Celtic Trust, an organisation which claims to champion the interests of supporters and small shareholders.
The Trust has no official status, and there is no way of knowing just how representative it really is of grassroots thinking among Celtic followers - its membership has been estimated at just 200 - but its criticism of the appointment of former home secretary Sir John Reid as club chairman was widely reported ahead of Celtic's annual general meeting earlier this week.
So far so good. It is only to be expected that a supporter's group should take a firm position on the arrival of a figure with a controversial past and abrasive reputation.
Dr Findlay's particular objection - made after her general criticism of the Celtic board being made up entirely of white men - was that Dr Reid, for his support for the invasion of Iraq, was "closely identified with a war which is widely held to be both illegal and immoral, which was based on lies, and which has brought devastation not only to thousands of innocent Iraqis but has resulted in the death of many young soldiers from this country."
It was that stance that earned Dr Findlay her invitation to appear on Campbell's programme.
As Dr Reid might struggle to win second place in a two-man popularity contest, many listeners would probably have been inclined to agree with her position, but instead she proceeded to alienate them with a jaw-dropping defence of sectarian singing at Celtic.
Having heard her state her case, Campbell asked Dr Findlay if the appointment of the former politician would be a greater stain on Celtic's reputation than songs that glorify terrorism. It was a clear opportunity to denounce those whose numbskull chants suggest a lingering ideological association with the IRA that the club has worked feverishly to erase.
And not since the dismal days of Harald Brattbakk has anyone associated with Celtic missed an open goal so spectacularly as Dr Findlay. For instead of an unequivocal rejection of sectarianism, Dr Findlay produced a stream of mealy-mouthed prevarication that sounded uncomfortably close to its defence.
"They may take a particular view of the history, of what happened in Ireland, which is different from many other people," she said. "So I don't call those pro-terrorist songs."
Campbell pointed out that he was not referring to inoffensive ditties from the gentler end of Irish folk music, but blatant support for the IRA. Having just dug herself a deep hole, though, Dr Findlay was in no mood to let go of the spade. "Many of those songs are from what was essentially a war of independence going back over a hundred years," she replied.
Unsurprisingly, Celtic moved quickly to dissociate the club from her remarks, the Celtic Supporters Association condemned her views, while a Scottish government spokeswoman described them as 'repugnant'. It quickly became clear that Dr Findlay was hopelessly out of touch with the opinions of the vast majority of Celtic supporters.
Contributions to the Celtic Trust website yesterday suggested that her views did not even reflect what most members of her own organisation believe. By putting them in the public domain she has only strengthened the claims of critics who argue that Celtic Park is still a hotbed of IRA support.
Most neutral observers would probably agree that Celtic have seemed more successful than Rangers in ridding their ground of sectarian songs and chants.Others would argue that they have succeeded only in the sense that the choruses of hate have become more inconspicuous at Parkhead than at Ibrox. Dr Findlay has simply strengthened the suspicions of those in the second category.
And yet there is a thunderous irony to her actions. The more respectable purpose of the Celtic Trust is to campaign for supporter representation at board level.
It is a cause with which many football followers would instinctively agree, but one that was neither helped nor strengthened by what she had to say. By Ian Edwards
On the basis that she is employed by one of Scotland's leading academic institutions, it is probably fair to assume that Glasgow University economics lecturer Dr Jeanette Findlay is likely to be a formidably intelligent individual.
On the strength of her remarks to Nicky Campbell on Radio Five Live's breakfast show the other day, however, it seems abundantly clear that her specialist field cannot be one that relies on a gift for joined-up thinking.
Dr Findlay chairs the Celtic Trust, an organisation which claims to champion the interests of supporters and small shareholders.
The Trust has no official status, and there is no way of knowing just how representative it really is of grassroots thinking among Celtic followers - its membership has been estimated at just 200 - but its criticism of the appointment of former home secretary Sir John Reid as club chairman was widely reported ahead of Celtic's annual general meeting earlier this week.
So far so good. It is only to be expected that a supporter's group should take a firm position on the arrival of a figure with a controversial past and abrasive reputation.
Dr Findlay's particular objection - made after her general criticism of the Celtic board being made up entirely of white men - was that Dr Reid, for his support for the invasion of Iraq, was "closely identified with a war which is widely held to be both illegal and immoral, which was based on lies, and which has brought devastation not only to thousands of innocent Iraqis but has resulted in the death of many young soldiers from this country."
It was that stance that earned Dr Findlay her invitation to appear on Campbell's programme.
As Dr Reid might struggle to win second place in a two-man popularity contest, many listeners would probably have been inclined to agree with her position, but instead she proceeded to alienate them with a jaw-dropping defence of sectarian singing at Celtic.
Having heard her state her case, Campbell asked Dr Findlay if the appointment of the former politician would be a greater stain on Celtic's reputation than songs that glorify terrorism. It was a clear opportunity to denounce those whose numbskull chants suggest a lingering ideological association with the IRA that the club has worked feverishly to erase.
And not since the dismal days of Harald Brattbakk has anyone associated with Celtic missed an open goal so spectacularly as Dr Findlay. For instead of an unequivocal rejection of sectarianism, Dr Findlay produced a stream of mealy-mouthed prevarication that sounded uncomfortably close to its defence.
"They may take a particular view of the history, of what happened in Ireland, which is different from many other people," she said. "So I don't call those pro-terrorist songs."
Campbell pointed out that he was not referring to inoffensive ditties from the gentler end of Irish folk music, but blatant support for the IRA. Having just dug herself a deep hole, though, Dr Findlay was in no mood to let go of the spade. "Many of those songs are from what was essentially a war of independence going back over a hundred years," she replied.
Unsurprisingly, Celtic moved quickly to dissociate the club from her remarks, the Celtic Supporters Association condemned her views, while a Scottish government spokeswoman described them as 'repugnant'. It quickly became clear that Dr Findlay was hopelessly out of touch with the opinions of the vast majority of Celtic supporters.
Contributions to the Celtic Trust website yesterday suggested that her views did not even reflect what most members of her own organisation believe. By putting them in the public domain she has only strengthened the claims of critics who argue that Celtic Park is still a hotbed of IRA support.
Most neutral observers would probably agree that Celtic have seemed more successful than Rangers in ridding their ground of sectarian songs and chants.Others would argue that they have succeeded only in the sense that the choruses of hate have become more inconspicuous at Parkhead than at Ibrox. Dr Findlay has simply strengthened the suspicions of those in the second category.
And yet there is a thunderous irony to her actions. The more respectable purpose of the Celtic Trust is to campaign for supporter representation at board level.
It is a cause with which many football followers would instinctively agree, but one that was neither helped nor strengthened by what she had to say. By Ian Edwards
Celtic fans' chief unrepentant for IRA song comments
Ireland Online 22/11/2007
A Celtic supporters' chief has refused to apologise for defending the singing of IRA songs.
University lecturer Jeanette Findlay, chair of the Celtic Trust, sparked fury when she said in a BBC interview that chants about terrorists had a historical basis.
Politicians and football supporters in Scotland and Ireland were quick to condemn her views.
But Dr Findlay refused to back down yesterday.
She told the Daily Record newspaper: "Why would I want to apologise? I made some relatively mild remarks on the radio and have no interest in co-operating with you.
"I am well aware of the effects that comments can have outside of football stadiums.
"In fact, I'm probably more aware than you are of the issues surrounding this subject."
She would not confirm whether she had been in contact with Celtic Trust members since the interview.
She said that the trust has its own channels of communication and that she would not be issuing any statement through the newspaper.
The row erupted after Dr Findlay spoke on BBC Radio 5 Live's breakfast programme on Tuesday.
She told the programme: "The club was founded to help the poor of the Irish immigrants to Scotland.
"Many of the supporters are descendants of these people.
"They may take a particular view of history, what happened in Ireland, which is different to many other people. So I don't call those pro-terrorist songs."
She said that the chants were "songs from a war of independence going back over a hundred years".
She made the comments on the day that the latest football anti-bigotry initiative was launched at Hampden Park.
The club has distanced itself from her comments, saying they were "totally unrepresentative of the Celtic support".
And the Scottish Government said her views were "repugnant".
Yesterday, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern said he was opposed to the singing of such songs at football matches.
Speaking in Ballymena, Co Antrim, he said: "From what I know Scotland has been very - and a lot of its clubs have been very - forthcoming in trying to root out sectarianism."
"Any singing of those type of songs, I wouldn't encourage at all."
An umbrella group representing around 100 Celtic supporters clubs north and south of the Irish border also backed the condemnation.
The Association of Irish Celtic Supporters Clubs represents clubs based in each of Ireland's four provinces, and said it was opposed to sectarianism, while continuing to celebrate Celtic's Irish roots.
A spokesman said: "The Association of Irish Celtic Supporters Clubs have been engaged with Celtic and the Scottish Executive to eradicate sectarianism from Scottish football, and will continue to support this initiative."
East Derry Democratic Unionist MP Gregory Campbell urged new Celtic chairman John Reid to speak out against Ms Findlay.
Accepting the club had already said Ms Findlay did not speak for the bulk of fans, he said: "Hopefully John Reid can go further saying not only does this not represent the attitude of the club but that it is the antithesis of what the club thinks and stands for.
"These are the sort of comments that cause major problems in Northern Ireland where there are many Celtic supporters."
He said Ms Findlay should consider her position.
A spokesman for the Association of Celtic Supporters' Clubs declined to discuss Ms Findlay's remarks.
Ms Findlay is a lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of Glasgow and co-director of the Glasgow University Football Research Centre.
The Celtic Trust is a supporters' trust and was established to represent the interests of small shareholders and supporters at Celtic.
A Celtic supporters' chief has refused to apologise for defending the singing of IRA songs.
University lecturer Jeanette Findlay, chair of the Celtic Trust, sparked fury when she said in a BBC interview that chants about terrorists had a historical basis.
Politicians and football supporters in Scotland and Ireland were quick to condemn her views.
But Dr Findlay refused to back down yesterday.
She told the Daily Record newspaper: "Why would I want to apologise? I made some relatively mild remarks on the radio and have no interest in co-operating with you.
"I am well aware of the effects that comments can have outside of football stadiums.
"In fact, I'm probably more aware than you are of the issues surrounding this subject."
She would not confirm whether she had been in contact with Celtic Trust members since the interview.
She said that the trust has its own channels of communication and that she would not be issuing any statement through the newspaper.
The row erupted after Dr Findlay spoke on BBC Radio 5 Live's breakfast programme on Tuesday.
She told the programme: "The club was founded to help the poor of the Irish immigrants to Scotland.
"Many of the supporters are descendants of these people.
"They may take a particular view of history, what happened in Ireland, which is different to many other people. So I don't call those pro-terrorist songs."
She said that the chants were "songs from a war of independence going back over a hundred years".
She made the comments on the day that the latest football anti-bigotry initiative was launched at Hampden Park.
The club has distanced itself from her comments, saying they were "totally unrepresentative of the Celtic support".
And the Scottish Government said her views were "repugnant".
Yesterday, Minister for Foreign Affairs Dermot Ahern said he was opposed to the singing of such songs at football matches.
Speaking in Ballymena, Co Antrim, he said: "From what I know Scotland has been very - and a lot of its clubs have been very - forthcoming in trying to root out sectarianism."
"Any singing of those type of songs, I wouldn't encourage at all."
An umbrella group representing around 100 Celtic supporters clubs north and south of the Irish border also backed the condemnation.
The Association of Irish Celtic Supporters Clubs represents clubs based in each of Ireland's four provinces, and said it was opposed to sectarianism, while continuing to celebrate Celtic's Irish roots.
A spokesman said: "The Association of Irish Celtic Supporters Clubs have been engaged with Celtic and the Scottish Executive to eradicate sectarianism from Scottish football, and will continue to support this initiative."
East Derry Democratic Unionist MP Gregory Campbell urged new Celtic chairman John Reid to speak out against Ms Findlay.
Accepting the club had already said Ms Findlay did not speak for the bulk of fans, he said: "Hopefully John Reid can go further saying not only does this not represent the attitude of the club but that it is the antithesis of what the club thinks and stands for.
"These are the sort of comments that cause major problems in Northern Ireland where there are many Celtic supporters."
He said Ms Findlay should consider her position.
A spokesman for the Association of Celtic Supporters' Clubs declined to discuss Ms Findlay's remarks.
Ms Findlay is a lecturer in the Department of Economics at the University of Glasgow and co-director of the Glasgow University Football Research Centre.
The Celtic Trust is a supporters' trust and was established to represent the interests of small shareholders and supporters at Celtic.
The past of Celtic Trust Chairman Alex Mosson
Daily Record – 18th May 1999
CONVICTED criminal Alex Mosson is the new Lord Provost of Glasgow.
The Labour politician will become the public face of Scotland's largest city despite convictions for assault and housebreaking.
Colleagues in the Labour Group of Glasgow City Council voted by a clear majority for Mosson to take over the high-profile civic role, which will pay him pounds 24,000 a year of public money.
Reformed alcoholic Mosson will also become Lord Lieutenant of Glasgow - the Queen's official representative in the city.
Last night, the 58-year-old said: 'My colleagues have placed their trust in me and I won't let them down.
'I'm looking forward to working with a unified group and taking Glasgow into the Millennium.
'I've overcome my past difficulties with the support of my family and today with the help of the Labour Party.'
The Record revealed yesterday that Mosson had been jailed for nine months for assault and six months for housebreaking.
Shortly after we broke the story, desperate Mosson spoke of his past to a local newspaper in an 11th-hour bid to salvage his tarnished reputation.
Playing for the sympathy vote, the councillor for Anderston blamed his battle with alcoholism for his violent behaviour and told how he once broke into a pub to satisfy his craving for drink.
He said: 'The convictions were part of my problem.
'It is something I am not proud of, but it is a fact that with the support of my wife and my family and my faith I have overcome that problem. I overcame the problem of alcoholism and I have worked on behalf of the people of Anderston since 1984.'
Saying he has been sober for the past 21 years, Mosson added: 'Because of my own illness, I have been able to identify and assist others in similar positions.
'I have represented the city at home and abroad with dignity.'
Unemployed Mosson, who lives in a plush Victorian home in Glasgow's upmarket west end, will now have a hefty salary and enjoy countless perks of office, including a chauffeur-driven limo.
Mosson's supporters argued that he was a worthy candidate for Lord Provost because his convictions from the late 1960s are now 'spent'.
As a councillor, he was under no obligation to reveal his criminal past.
But employees of Glasgow City Council working in areas such as social work and education have no option but to reveal details of their past crimes.
The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act, which usually prevents such convictions being disclosed after a set time, is not applied.
Yesterday, the Scottish Office admitted that the new Secretary of State, John Reid, would not be able to prevent Mosson becoming the Queen's representative in Glasgow.
Of the 32 Lord Lieutenants in Scotland, 28 are recommended by the Scottish Secretary.
But the four city Lord Provosts are appointed by their councils.
In yesterday's election, Councillor Charlie Gordon was elected unopposed as council leader, and Jim Coleman as his deputy.
Last night, an SNP spokesman said of Mosson's new role: 'This shows that nothing has changed with Labour in Glasgow. It's the same old cronyism.'
Liberal Democrat councillor Dr Christopher Mason added: 'I am very concerned at this.'
CONVICTED criminal Alex Mosson is the new Lord Provost of Glasgow.
The Labour politician will become the public face of Scotland's largest city despite convictions for assault and housebreaking.
Colleagues in the Labour Group of Glasgow City Council voted by a clear majority for Mosson to take over the high-profile civic role, which will pay him pounds 24,000 a year of public money.
Reformed alcoholic Mosson will also become Lord Lieutenant of Glasgow - the Queen's official representative in the city.
Last night, the 58-year-old said: 'My colleagues have placed their trust in me and I won't let them down.
'I'm looking forward to working with a unified group and taking Glasgow into the Millennium.
'I've overcome my past difficulties with the support of my family and today with the help of the Labour Party.'
The Record revealed yesterday that Mosson had been jailed for nine months for assault and six months for housebreaking.
Shortly after we broke the story, desperate Mosson spoke of his past to a local newspaper in an 11th-hour bid to salvage his tarnished reputation.
Playing for the sympathy vote, the councillor for Anderston blamed his battle with alcoholism for his violent behaviour and told how he once broke into a pub to satisfy his craving for drink.
He said: 'The convictions were part of my problem.
'It is something I am not proud of, but it is a fact that with the support of my wife and my family and my faith I have overcome that problem. I overcame the problem of alcoholism and I have worked on behalf of the people of Anderston since 1984.'
Saying he has been sober for the past 21 years, Mosson added: 'Because of my own illness, I have been able to identify and assist others in similar positions.
'I have represented the city at home and abroad with dignity.'
Unemployed Mosson, who lives in a plush Victorian home in Glasgow's upmarket west end, will now have a hefty salary and enjoy countless perks of office, including a chauffeur-driven limo.
Mosson's supporters argued that he was a worthy candidate for Lord Provost because his convictions from the late 1960s are now 'spent'.
As a councillor, he was under no obligation to reveal his criminal past.
But employees of Glasgow City Council working in areas such as social work and education have no option but to reveal details of their past crimes.
The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act, which usually prevents such convictions being disclosed after a set time, is not applied.
Yesterday, the Scottish Office admitted that the new Secretary of State, John Reid, would not be able to prevent Mosson becoming the Queen's representative in Glasgow.
Of the 32 Lord Lieutenants in Scotland, 28 are recommended by the Scottish Secretary.
But the four city Lord Provosts are appointed by their councils.
In yesterday's election, Councillor Charlie Gordon was elected unopposed as council leader, and Jim Coleman as his deputy.
Last night, an SNP spokesman said of Mosson's new role: 'This shows that nothing has changed with Labour in Glasgow. It's the same old cronyism.'
Liberal Democrat councillor Dr Christopher Mason added: 'I am very concerned at this.'
Bomb Victims Dad hits out at Celtic Trust
Daily Record 21 Nov 2007
The father of a boy killed in an IRA bombing last night branded Findlay's remarks "downright idiotic".
Colin Parry's 12-year-old son Tim was killed by an IRA attack in Warrington, Chesire, in 1993.
He said: "Taking a soft line, I'd say Findlay's comments foolish in the extreme. Taking a hard line, I would say they're downright idiotic.
"I cant airbrush the death of my son out of my life. It is a legacy I live with everyday.
"It's beyond belief to me that an academic would espouse such views."
The father of a boy killed in an IRA bombing last night branded Findlay's remarks "downright idiotic".
Colin Parry's 12-year-old son Tim was killed by an IRA attack in Warrington, Chesire, in 1993.
He said: "Taking a soft line, I'd say Findlay's comments foolish in the extreme. Taking a hard line, I would say they're downright idiotic.
"I cant airbrush the death of my son out of my life. It is a legacy I live with everyday.
"It's beyond belief to me that an academic would espouse such views."
£500 reward if anyone recognisies this Celtic fan
There's a £500 reward if anyone recognisies him phone 0141 4205128
Celtic fans anti British Protest
CELTIC fans have begun a campaign to stop John Reid from becoming the club's next chairman because of his role in the Iraq war.Thousands of shareholders have been urged to vote against the former Home Secretary's appointment at the AGM on Monday.
The Celtic Trust, which has 200 members, cites the Iraq war alongside concerns over his close links with majority shareholder Dermot Desmond.
Members have called for the board to launch a "wide ranging search" for a more suitable successor to Brian Quinn.
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Mr Quinn, who turns 71 this month, is a former deputy governor of the Bank of England and has held the post since 2000.
Flyers were handed out protesting against Mr Reid's nomination at a recent home game, and an internet petition has almost 1000 signatures.
Jeanette Findlay, trust member and a professor of economics, said: "We have serious concerns about the appointment of this individual to Celtic Football Club.
"The Iraq war was extremely unpopular with the public and we don't believe this appointment fits with the ethos of Celtic and how the fans see the club.
"There has always been sympathy at Celtic for the plight of oppressed people.
"We also have serious concerns about the selection process, which we believe is too narrow."
The trust's members have also called on supporters to vote against Dermot Desmond's re-election.
The internet petition, which is not connected with the trust, claims the appointment would be "contrary to Celtic's heritage as the invasion of Iraq has resulted in the deaths of thousands of innocent people".
Mr Quinn, speaking in September, said: "I felt that the time was right to pass on the baton. I am delighted that, in John Reid, we have a man with the club's best interests at heart."
BT executive Ian Livingston, 43, is also seeking election on to the club's board.
Celtic football club refused to comment.
Publication date 14/11/07
Celtic fans may have a sense of humour
Could be a Celtic fans attempt of a bit of craic, not sure but here's a little reminder of their history.
Their faith of choice is linked in so many ways to fascism.
Their terrorist organisation is linked in so many ways to fascism.
The country they would rather call home is linked in so many ways to fascism.
Their ground has been closed singing in support of fascists.
They were responsible for the most racist/fascist incident in British football.
An Irish magazine described them as the "Irish BNP".
Celtic Fan extradited for being suspected IRA terrorist
Michael Dickson, who has been held in custody in Prague since December on an international arrest warrant, has been on Interpol's wanted list for several years.He is suspected of direct involvement in the 1996 grenade attack in Oesnabruck, as well as a bombing of barracks in Lisburn, northern Ireland, in which one soldier was killed. He has also been linked with the 1999 shooting of former IRA member Martin McGartland. Having successfully avoided detection for years, Dickson made the fatal mistake of trying to smuggle cigarettes across the Czech border in December of 2002.
Michael Dickson's appeal to the High Court, leaves the final ruling on his extradition with Justice Minister Pavel Rychetsky and may delay the process by about two months but observers do not believe that Dickson stands any chance of avoiding justice. "The High Court has no reason to question the municipal court's decision - this is a straightforward case," state attorney Dagmar Machova told journalists after the verdict. Only two things could have prevented or complicated Dickson's extradition to a third country - if he had been a Czech national or if the crime he was suspected of committing were not a criminal offense under Czech law. Neither of these apply.
There is no deadline by which the Czech High Court should rule on the case but given its gravity and its international implications, this is one case in which the Czech justice system should produce a swift verdict.
Wall of silence was his licence to abuse
The finger of suspicion was pointed at Torbett as long ago as the early 1970s. There were whispers that he molested 13 and 14-year-old players in his care. But the victims were too ashamed to admit they had been violated by someone they believed in, so they suffered in silence. The Celtic board were aware of the rumours about Torbett, who was general manager of the boys' club. But only one man took him on.
Jock Stein, who saw the youngsters as the lifeblood of the club, gave him his marching orders.The big man brought in business-man Hugh Birt as boys' club chairman, and Torbett went back to building his store empire. But after Stein's death, the pervert wheedled his way back in as fundraiser. Again, complaints were made that boys were being taken away for weekends and sexually abused. But, when Birt raised the matter 10 years ago, he was forced to resign. He said at the time: "It appears the Celtic board want to look in the other direction in the hope the trouble will go away."Birt had been told by anxious parents that their sons were being taken out socially when no games were involved. There were also fears that Torbett was taking boys to non-existent weekend tournaments.
Birt raised the claims with then Celtic vice-chairman Kevin Kelly, who passed the issue to manager David Hay. But later Kelly, along with Torbett and boys' club general manager Frank Cairney, asked Birt to resign. When he refused, Celtic withdrew his ticket to the directors' box and he had no option but to get out. Torbett later invited Kelly to become a director of the Trophy Centre chain. The pervert is now a wealthy man, who has swapped an 11th-floor council flat for a plush pad in Glasgow's west end. The Trophy Centre has a string of outlets across Glasgow selling medals, cups and fancy goods. Torbett's business partner and shareholder is Gerry McAleer, a former boys' club player. Despite the constant talk of sexual abuse, Torbett's links with Parkhead remained as strong as ever. In 1993, cash-strapped Celtic called him in to help them make their club shops profitable. At the time, a club spokesman said: "Mr Torbett is a very successful businessman and a Celtic fan. He is a retail specialist, and we want him to review the operation of the shops."
By then, Torbett was projects organiser with the boys' club, running tours to America and Europe. After one of those tournaments, in New Jersey in 1991, his old pal Frank Cairney quit as general manager. His resignation followed an alleged incident involving a young Celt. US police investigated, but the case never came to court because the boy wouldn't make a complaint. Torbett's Trophy Centre now sponsors the Scottish Amateur Youth leagues for boys between 12 and 18. Celtic have a team in every league
Jock Stein, who saw the youngsters as the lifeblood of the club, gave him his marching orders.The big man brought in business-man Hugh Birt as boys' club chairman, and Torbett went back to building his store empire. But after Stein's death, the pervert wheedled his way back in as fundraiser. Again, complaints were made that boys were being taken away for weekends and sexually abused. But, when Birt raised the matter 10 years ago, he was forced to resign. He said at the time: "It appears the Celtic board want to look in the other direction in the hope the trouble will go away."Birt had been told by anxious parents that their sons were being taken out socially when no games were involved. There were also fears that Torbett was taking boys to non-existent weekend tournaments.
Birt raised the claims with then Celtic vice-chairman Kevin Kelly, who passed the issue to manager David Hay. But later Kelly, along with Torbett and boys' club general manager Frank Cairney, asked Birt to resign. When he refused, Celtic withdrew his ticket to the directors' box and he had no option but to get out. Torbett later invited Kelly to become a director of the Trophy Centre chain. The pervert is now a wealthy man, who has swapped an 11th-floor council flat for a plush pad in Glasgow's west end. The Trophy Centre has a string of outlets across Glasgow selling medals, cups and fancy goods. Torbett's business partner and shareholder is Gerry McAleer, a former boys' club player. Despite the constant talk of sexual abuse, Torbett's links with Parkhead remained as strong as ever. In 1993, cash-strapped Celtic called him in to help them make their club shops profitable. At the time, a club spokesman said: "Mr Torbett is a very successful businessman and a Celtic fan. He is a retail specialist, and we want him to review the operation of the shops."
By then, Torbett was projects organiser with the boys' club, running tours to America and Europe. After one of those tournaments, in New Jersey in 1991, his old pal Frank Cairney quit as general manager. His resignation followed an alleged incident involving a young Celt. US police investigated, but the case never came to court because the boy wouldn't make a complaint. Torbett's Trophy Centre now sponsors the Scottish Amateur Youth leagues for boys between 12 and 18. Celtic have a team in every league
Celtic Sex fiend left me weeping in Norway
by Anna Smith
At just 13, he was Celtic's youngest-ever signing and hailed as Scotland's greatest prospect. But John McCluskey's dreams of stardom were tarnished by Jim Torbett. The innocent lad was used for tawdry sex by the manager during a boys' club trip to Norway. And, when Torbett had fulfilled his sick obsession, he left his victim alone, confused and crying.
John, the brother of Parkhead favourite George McCluskey, spoke yesterday of the agony he has felt for 23 years. Near tears, he said: "My guilt and shame now is not for what happened that night. My shame is that I waited 23 years to do anything about it. "Dunblane was the one thing that made me come forward. If some of the boys abused by Thomas Hamilton had spoken out, perhaps the massacre might not have happened." Striker John was destined to be a Celtic great. At 12, he so impressed Jock Stein that he was promised a place on the ground staff as soon as he left school. A key player at Celtic Boys' Club, John's Lanarkshire home was littered with trophies and medals. But one Best Player trophy fills him with revulsion each time he looks at it. It was given him after the awful night in Norway that changed his life forever. John said: "Every time I look at that trophy, I wonder if I got it because of what Torbett did to me. "I've always felt like throwing it in a river. But, if I had, I'd have had to tell everyone what happened." Tears fill John's eyes as he relives the nightmare. He said: "We were lying in a dormitory talking about football -the usual stuff. "Torbett was sleeping in the dorm and shouted, `Fryer' -my nickname -`go in that room and sort the strips for tomorrow'. "But, when I went in, the strips were already sorted. "Torbett followed me in and sat me down on the bed. He put his hand inside my pyjamas and fondled me. "I was terrified. I didn't know what to do. I just sat there and let him do it to me. "When I think of it now it makes me sick. "He left, and I cried my eyes out. I didn't want to go back among the boys and I didn't want to be by myself. I was so frightened. "Eventually I went back to bed and pulled the covers over my head. "I didn't know what to think. I thought there must be something wrong with me and I must have enjoyed it, otherwise I wouldn't have let him do it to me. "So I was terrified to complain to anyone."
John had been on other foreign trips with the boys' club. But he came back from Norway a different person. He said: "Everything had changed. But I was still determined to be a great player. "I trained hard and played really well. I don't know how, but I was able to concentrate on my game." But he stayed away from Torbett. He said: "A crowd of boys used to go to his home all the time. I went once, and that was enough for me. "I saw him beat up a lad who played with the boys' club, but was about 17 and seemed to live with him. "I was horrified to see him slapping his face and punching him, yet the boy did nothing to stop him. "There was always talk around Celtic about Torbett and boys, but nothing seemed to be done until Jock Stein found out. "He kicked Torbett out, but it was still kept quiet. "All the directors and lots of others knew why Torbett got the boot, but it was swept under the carpet."
John soon became a young Scottish hero, scoring the winner against England at Wembley in a 1975 schoolboy international. All eyes were on the boy who was to be the new Kenny Dalglish. But, two years later, a kick in training caused a blood clot on his leg that destroyed his career. John made a brief comeback, playing with Celtic's first team in a European tie when he was still 17. But his injury recurred, and he hasn't played since. For nearly 20 years, he has watched former team-mates grab the trophies as his life has become a tragic tale of booze and disappointment. John, who now hasn't touched a drop in four years, reckons his injury helped push him into drinking. But he is sure his biggest reason was to blot out the memory of Torbett's abuse. He said: "I started drinking after Norway. Suddenly it looked like something I wanted to do. "I was drinking heavily from 17. It was the only way to forget what Torbett did. "I was shattered that my career had finished. But I could have lived with that if it hadn't been for Norway. "I'm so glad I don't have sons. I would have wanted to send them to Celtic Boys Club, but I would always have wondered if some pervert was abusing them. "It took me a long time to come to terms with what happened and understand it wasn't my fault. "But there are still days when I suddenly find myself in tears. "Nobody should get away with what Torbett did. How many more boys have suffered because of him? "I still love Celtic. I go to Parkhead every week and I'll be a Celtic man until I die. "I only hope real Celtic fans will understand why I have come forward. If I can help stop this happening to one more boy, it will have been worthwhile."
TORBETT PLEADED AS HIS VICTIM SOBBED A few days ago, John got a chilling phone call from Torbett pleading his innocence. It came after John made a sworn statement about the pervert to Celtic's lawyers, in the presence of club supremo Fergus McCann. John said: "I didn't even tell my brother George about Torbett until last week. "He was furious and wanted to do something about it. I told him to leave it, that I was coping fine. "But, when he left the house, I just burst into tears. "While I was crying, the phone rang. It was Torbett. "He said: `What are you doing to me, son?' "I told him it was what he did to me that was the problem. "He said:`You know I never touched you, son. You know I loved you, and your family.' "I was sick, just listening to him. "I told him that I hadn't gone to the police or the newspapers and he said, `I appreciate that, son'."
John told how a visit from the police, who were investigating sex abuse allegations at Celtic Boys' Club dating back four years, finally made him come forward. He said: "The police were asking about someone else. "I thought they wanted to talk about Torbett, but they didn't, so I didn't tell them my story. "I spoke to Tommy Burns about it instead. He got me to make a statement to Fergus McCann who asked me to make a statement to their lawyers. "I have now done that. I will also make a statement to the police." If you are a victim of sexual abuse at Celtic Boys' Club we want to talk to you. Please call us on 0141-242-3409 or 3325.
At just 13, he was Celtic's youngest-ever signing and hailed as Scotland's greatest prospect. But John McCluskey's dreams of stardom were tarnished by Jim Torbett. The innocent lad was used for tawdry sex by the manager during a boys' club trip to Norway. And, when Torbett had fulfilled his sick obsession, he left his victim alone, confused and crying.
John, the brother of Parkhead favourite George McCluskey, spoke yesterday of the agony he has felt for 23 years. Near tears, he said: "My guilt and shame now is not for what happened that night. My shame is that I waited 23 years to do anything about it. "Dunblane was the one thing that made me come forward. If some of the boys abused by Thomas Hamilton had spoken out, perhaps the massacre might not have happened." Striker John was destined to be a Celtic great. At 12, he so impressed Jock Stein that he was promised a place on the ground staff as soon as he left school. A key player at Celtic Boys' Club, John's Lanarkshire home was littered with trophies and medals. But one Best Player trophy fills him with revulsion each time he looks at it. It was given him after the awful night in Norway that changed his life forever. John said: "Every time I look at that trophy, I wonder if I got it because of what Torbett did to me. "I've always felt like throwing it in a river. But, if I had, I'd have had to tell everyone what happened." Tears fill John's eyes as he relives the nightmare. He said: "We were lying in a dormitory talking about football -the usual stuff. "Torbett was sleeping in the dorm and shouted, `Fryer' -my nickname -`go in that room and sort the strips for tomorrow'. "But, when I went in, the strips were already sorted. "Torbett followed me in and sat me down on the bed. He put his hand inside my pyjamas and fondled me. "I was terrified. I didn't know what to do. I just sat there and let him do it to me. "When I think of it now it makes me sick. "He left, and I cried my eyes out. I didn't want to go back among the boys and I didn't want to be by myself. I was so frightened. "Eventually I went back to bed and pulled the covers over my head. "I didn't know what to think. I thought there must be something wrong with me and I must have enjoyed it, otherwise I wouldn't have let him do it to me. "So I was terrified to complain to anyone."
John had been on other foreign trips with the boys' club. But he came back from Norway a different person. He said: "Everything had changed. But I was still determined to be a great player. "I trained hard and played really well. I don't know how, but I was able to concentrate on my game." But he stayed away from Torbett. He said: "A crowd of boys used to go to his home all the time. I went once, and that was enough for me. "I saw him beat up a lad who played with the boys' club, but was about 17 and seemed to live with him. "I was horrified to see him slapping his face and punching him, yet the boy did nothing to stop him. "There was always talk around Celtic about Torbett and boys, but nothing seemed to be done until Jock Stein found out. "He kicked Torbett out, but it was still kept quiet. "All the directors and lots of others knew why Torbett got the boot, but it was swept under the carpet."
John soon became a young Scottish hero, scoring the winner against England at Wembley in a 1975 schoolboy international. All eyes were on the boy who was to be the new Kenny Dalglish. But, two years later, a kick in training caused a blood clot on his leg that destroyed his career. John made a brief comeback, playing with Celtic's first team in a European tie when he was still 17. But his injury recurred, and he hasn't played since. For nearly 20 years, he has watched former team-mates grab the trophies as his life has become a tragic tale of booze and disappointment. John, who now hasn't touched a drop in four years, reckons his injury helped push him into drinking. But he is sure his biggest reason was to blot out the memory of Torbett's abuse. He said: "I started drinking after Norway. Suddenly it looked like something I wanted to do. "I was drinking heavily from 17. It was the only way to forget what Torbett did. "I was shattered that my career had finished. But I could have lived with that if it hadn't been for Norway. "I'm so glad I don't have sons. I would have wanted to send them to Celtic Boys Club, but I would always have wondered if some pervert was abusing them. "It took me a long time to come to terms with what happened and understand it wasn't my fault. "But there are still days when I suddenly find myself in tears. "Nobody should get away with what Torbett did. How many more boys have suffered because of him? "I still love Celtic. I go to Parkhead every week and I'll be a Celtic man until I die. "I only hope real Celtic fans will understand why I have come forward. If I can help stop this happening to one more boy, it will have been worthwhile."
TORBETT PLEADED AS HIS VICTIM SOBBED A few days ago, John got a chilling phone call from Torbett pleading his innocence. It came after John made a sworn statement about the pervert to Celtic's lawyers, in the presence of club supremo Fergus McCann. John said: "I didn't even tell my brother George about Torbett until last week. "He was furious and wanted to do something about it. I told him to leave it, that I was coping fine. "But, when he left the house, I just burst into tears. "While I was crying, the phone rang. It was Torbett. "He said: `What are you doing to me, son?' "I told him it was what he did to me that was the problem. "He said:`You know I never touched you, son. You know I loved you, and your family.' "I was sick, just listening to him. "I told him that I hadn't gone to the police or the newspapers and he said, `I appreciate that, son'."
John told how a visit from the police, who were investigating sex abuse allegations at Celtic Boys' Club dating back four years, finally made him come forward. He said: "The police were asking about someone else. "I thought they wanted to talk about Torbett, but they didn't, so I didn't tell them my story. "I spoke to Tommy Burns about it instead. He got me to make a statement to Fergus McCann who asked me to make a statement to their lawyers. "I have now done that. I will also make a statement to the police." If you are a victim of sexual abuse at Celtic Boys' Club we want to talk to you. Please call us on 0141-242-3409 or 3325.
Pervert preyed on Celtic Boys Daily
by Anna Smith Charles Beaton and Iain Ferguson
Pervert football boss Jim Torbett terrorised a generation of young Celtic players. The trusted team chief lured innocent lads with promises of the big time. Then the Celtic Boys' Club supremo molested the babes who idolised him.
Depraved Torbett, 50, is still a major figure in the Parkhead talent nursery. Today three of his victims -including Scotland cap Alan Brazil -break their silence. Brazil, 37, said: "Torbett should be locked up. "He shouldn't be allowed anywhere near boys' teams." Sex abuse allegations have haunted Celtic Boys' Club for almost a quarter of a century
A Record investigation has revealed Celtic's board knew about the rumours 20 years ago. Only Jock Stein was big enough to show Torbett the door. And after the legend died, the pervert wormed his way back into the good books.
Today, Torbett is a respected senior official of the boys' club. His Trophy Centre shops sponsor the league Celtic boys play in, and provide Celtic FC with most of their medals and awards. He also helped raise cash for the Celtic Charity Fund. And he has a regular seat in the Parkhead directors' box as guest of his pal, past chairman Kevin Kelly.
Bachelor Torbett lured Celtic kids to his council flat with ice-cream and fancy meals. He also took them on glamorous foreign tours. Then he used them as sex toys, in return for a promise of glory.
John McCluskey, brother of Parkhead star George, was one of Torbett's victims. He said: "All I ever dreamed of was to play for Celtic. But Torbett turned that dream into a memory that will haunt me until I die. "My shame is not for what happened, but for keeping it quiet so long."
Last night, Parkhead supremo Fergus McCann promised to personally investigate the scandal. He has already spoken to some of the victims. He even called in police, who found nothing. In a statement, McCann said: "These are very serious allegations, and those concerned should report all information to police. "I would like to make it clear that this matter has no current link to Celtic Football Club. "I have nothing to say on the past board's handling of the matter."
Celtic Boys' Club chairman Tony McGuiness said he would call for an immediate special general meeting to probe the claims. He said: "I asked Jim about the allegations, and he assured me he would never do anything to harm the club. "He is still connected with the club, although he is not a regular attender at meetings. "I have heard rumours and counter-rumours over the years against several people, and I recently helped police with certain inquiries." At his home in Glasgow's west end, Torbett said: "I have nothing to say on the matter."
Pervert football boss Jim Torbett terrorised a generation of young Celtic players. The trusted team chief lured innocent lads with promises of the big time. Then the Celtic Boys' Club supremo molested the babes who idolised him.
Depraved Torbett, 50, is still a major figure in the Parkhead talent nursery. Today three of his victims -including Scotland cap Alan Brazil -break their silence. Brazil, 37, said: "Torbett should be locked up. "He shouldn't be allowed anywhere near boys' teams." Sex abuse allegations have haunted Celtic Boys' Club for almost a quarter of a century
A Record investigation has revealed Celtic's board knew about the rumours 20 years ago. Only Jock Stein was big enough to show Torbett the door. And after the legend died, the pervert wormed his way back into the good books.
Today, Torbett is a respected senior official of the boys' club. His Trophy Centre shops sponsor the league Celtic boys play in, and provide Celtic FC with most of their medals and awards. He also helped raise cash for the Celtic Charity Fund. And he has a regular seat in the Parkhead directors' box as guest of his pal, past chairman Kevin Kelly.
Bachelor Torbett lured Celtic kids to his council flat with ice-cream and fancy meals. He also took them on glamorous foreign tours. Then he used them as sex toys, in return for a promise of glory.
John McCluskey, brother of Parkhead star George, was one of Torbett's victims. He said: "All I ever dreamed of was to play for Celtic. But Torbett turned that dream into a memory that will haunt me until I die. "My shame is not for what happened, but for keeping it quiet so long."
Last night, Parkhead supremo Fergus McCann promised to personally investigate the scandal. He has already spoken to some of the victims. He even called in police, who found nothing. In a statement, McCann said: "These are very serious allegations, and those concerned should report all information to police. "I would like to make it clear that this matter has no current link to Celtic Football Club. "I have nothing to say on the past board's handling of the matter."
Celtic Boys' Club chairman Tony McGuiness said he would call for an immediate special general meeting to probe the claims. He said: "I asked Jim about the allegations, and he assured me he would never do anything to harm the club. "He is still connected with the club, although he is not a regular attender at meetings. "I have heard rumours and counter-rumours over the years against several people, and I recently helped police with certain inquiries." At his home in Glasgow's west end, Torbett said: "I have nothing to say on the matter."
Vandalism by Celtic Fans at Kilmarnock
Celtic fans weren't happy that their rivals won the league championship so they decided to take it out on Kilmarnock FC.
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