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Celtic apologise to Ross County and all SPFL clubs over Boli Bolingoli failing to observe coronavirus quarantine restrictions


By Will Clark

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CELTIC have contacted Ross County to apologise for the behaviour of defender Boli Bolingoli who travelled to Spain and failed to observe quarantine restrictions when he returned which could put the football season on hold.

Celtic playing Ross County last season. Picture: Ken Macpherson
Celtic playing Ross County last season. Picture: Ken Macpherson

The Scottish champions have contacted all SPFL clubs to say sorry and condemn the actions of the 24-year-old Belgian wing-back.

It has been confirmed Bolingoli travelled to Spain without informing the club and failed to quarantine for 14 days since returning to the country.

Bolingoli came on as a substitute in Celtic's 1-1 draw against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Sunday.

Ross County are due to play Kilmarnock at the Global Energy Stadium tomorrow night. But the Scottish Government has said it will consider putting the football season on hold due to incidents involving football players.

It has happened days after last weekend's game between St Johnstone and Aberdeen was called off after two Aberdeen players tested positive for coronavirus.

Eight Aberdeen players also apologised breaking coronavirus guidelines after visiting a bar after their 1-0 defeat against Rangers, exceeding the number of households that are allowed to meet up.

Celtic released a statement condemning Bolingoli's actions.

They said: "Celtic Football Club unreservedly condemns and apologises for the behaviour of the player Boli Bolingoli in travelling to Spain without informing the club and in failing to observe quarantine restrictions.

"It is difficult to imagine a more irresponsible action in current circumstances and we find it beyond explanation.

"The club will take immediate action through our own disciplinary procedures.

"Celtic are in touch with every SPFL club today, and with all relevant authorities, to apologise for the fact that one of our employees has created so much additional difficulty through his actions.

"All of our playing and backroom staff have been tested twice for Covid-19 since this incident and all, including the player in question, have tested negative. While this comes as a relief to all concerned, it in no way diminishes the seriousness or stupidity of the player’s actions.

"Since the Covid -19 crisis began, we have had a safe and healthy squad of players, recording not one positive test. As a club, we have worked tirelessly to ensure a sustained, safe environment for all.

"We have led the way in working with the football authorities and Scottish Government to establish the most rigorous, effective protocols and working practices, which ultimately led to the resumption of football. We could have done no more in this area.

"It is a matter of the deepest regret to us that the behaviour of one individual has jeopardised that reputation and reflected discredit on football more generally."

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