Fan Groups Unleash on Celtic Board
The Celtic Trust and Celtic Supporters Association have released scathing statements criticising the running of the club amid a sluggish summer transfer window. The Scottish champions have signed only Camilo Duran so far, with the new Premiership season starting on August 3 and the Champions League playoff first leg on August 18.
During a pre-season friendly against Middlesbrough on Saturday, large sections of the home stands were empty as fans expressed their discontent.
Supporters Association Statement
The Celtic Supporters Association issued a statement placing blame on Dermot Desmond and the executive team. The statement read: "The current playing squad is clearly well short of what Celtic supporters, players and the management team demand if we are to compete on all fronts domestically and challenge at the highest level of European football."
It highlighted that nearly 60 days have passed since winning the league title, yet only one new player has been added. The statement also criticised the departure of key players despite public statements from the players and manager expressing a desire to stay.
"It is evident to supporters that responsibility for these failings lies with those tasked with concluding deals and strengthening the playing squad – namely the executive team and the club’s major shareholder, Dermot Desmond," the statement continued.
CEO Michael Nicholson's recent comments about agents’ fees, the financial power of the English Premier League and Championship, and living in Glasgow were cited as reinforcing supporters' concerns. The statement also noted the absence of a permanent chairman since Peter Lawwell's departure and the lack of a Head of Football Operations after Paul Tisdale's dismissal.
Celtic Trust Statement
The Celtic Trust followed up, questioning Desmond's position and expressing concerns over failed deals for Kelechi Iheanacho and Marcelo Saracchi. Their statement read: "Like many Celtic fans, The Celtic Trust are concerned about the preparation for the season ahead and what appears to be yet another year without any strategic planning by those running the club."
It noted that both Iheanacho and Saracchi indicated they wanted to stay, and Martin O'Neill had expressed hope of keeping Iheanacho, yet the club failed to secure them. The Trust called for Michael Nicholson and Chris McKay to step down and for interim Chairman Brian Wilson to outline the club's direction.
"We also call on all small shareholders to unite in pushing for change at boardroom level," the statement added. "With another AGM a few months away, it is imperative that small shareholders' voice is heard and taken seriously by those running the club."
The Trust also questioned other major shareholders: "How long are you going to sit quietly while the Desmonds rule the club with a minority of shares?"
