Celtic given 'timely' police reminder before derby

Manager Martin O'Neill says Celtic had a visit from Police Scotland on Friday to give them "a timely reminder" about their "general behaviour" in Sunday's Premier Sport Cup quarter-final against city rivals Rangers.

Both Glasgow clubs were last month ordered to play their next home Scottish Cup matches behind closed doors after last season's quarter-final - won by Celtic after a penalty shootout at Ibrox - was marred by fan disorder.

It will be the first time Celtic have returned there since, although the Scottish champions did host a Scottish Premiership encounter in May, beating Rangers 3-1.

The Scottish Professional Football League recently announced no away fans will attend Old Firm derbies in the league or League Cup this season.

"We had the police come in today, just a little 15-minute meeting to remind us of our behaviour, which I think is a timely reminder," O'Neill revealed.

Asked what had been said, the Northern Irishman said: "They didn't mention this, but I would have assumed that one of the things that would be considered is what happens in the field of play, because these things can be taken further.

"You don't want any sort of punch-ups for a start. Secondly, you don't want excessive celebrations, stuff like that.

"But I think it's just the behaviour in the light of what has happened in recent fixtures. I think that the conversation with the police wouldn't have taken place had not recent events been brought up to us."

Celtic have won the latest three derbies since Rangers beat them 3-1 at Celtic Park in the league in January - and are five points ahead in the Premiership after just six games of the new season.

Asked how having no away fans might impact the match, O'Neill added: "I think the games themselves almost take care of themselves in that sense.

"It'll be strange in many aspects not to have any away fans in our area. I always felt as if it would give you a crumb of comfort in some description.

"Nervously looking forward to it, excitedly looking forward to it."

Rangers have come in for some criticism from their own fans for a poor start to the season under new manager Derek McInnes, although the hosts are on a run of four successive victories.

"I suppose if you get in front in the game, that makes them anxious," O'Neill suggested.

"Talking about getting in front and getting in front are two different things. The crowd will be right behind their team, which you would expect.

"We just do our best. We know that we're up against a very fine side. We're up against a crowd that can make a difference. I'd be delighted to be celebrating something in the game."