CELTIC have been given the green light for full capacity crowds at Parkhead from next week.
There will be 24,500 in attendance for the visit of Dundee on Sunday, but there will a full house for the second leg of the Europa League qualifier against Czech Republic outfit Jablonec a week tonight.
The move, which is subject to conditions prescribed by Glasgow City Council, should see a massive turn-out for the first time since 58,998 watched the team thump St Mirren 5-0 on March 7 2020 before the outbreak of coronavirus forced a 16-month nationwide lockdown.
A statement from Celtic read: “We are delighted to announce that we have received confirmation from the local Safety Advisory Group that following Tuesday’s Scottish Government announcement and positive reviews of recent matches and associated protocols, full capacity crowds will now be permitted at Celtic Park from Monday, August 9 onwards.
“It has been too long since we have heard the roar of a packed Paradise and we cannot wait to welcome you home to Celtic Park!
“We have been working relentlessly behind the scenes to bring our supporters back and we are thrilled to finally be able to make this announcement.”
Chief Executive Dom McKay added: “I would like to thank our fans for all the fantastic support they have given us in reaching these levels. I would especially like to thank our staff for their tireless efforts and hard work in getting us to this stage.
“Our team have been a leading force in Scottish sport, writing and exercising protocols and procedures to allow us to return to train and play. Now, through their hard work and leadership, we are finally welcoming you, our fans, back where you belong. I must also thank the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council and the Safety Advisory Group for all their co-operation.”
The Hoops will play their first leg of their crucial Europa tie in the Czech Republic this afternoon with a 4.45pm start. The return with have a usual 7.45pm commencement.
The club will make announcements about procedures for the return of the fans in the forthcoming days.
* DON’T miss the unbeatable match report from Jablonec v Celtic this afternoon – only in your champion CQN.
