CELTIC are poised to learn their fate today as they face charges and sanctions from the footballing authorities in the fall-out of the Boli Bolingoli affair.
The errant Belgian defender, who ignored government self-isolation directives after a secret trip to high-risk Spain, will be dealt with by the SFA and can expect a fine and suspension for his selfish actions.
However, the champions, bidding for a historic 10-in-a-row, are also in line for punishment under the new SPFL Covid safety rules that allows for action from football’s ruling body, as reported by STV.
Celtic and Aberdeen, who were due to meet at Parkhead tomorrow afternoon, are both in the dock due to the inexplicable actions of their players with eight of the Dons stars meeting in a city centre pub after a recent game.
An annex to the league’s rules and regulations lays out the responsibility for clubs to follow the rules on distancing and to adhere to any changes to the guidelines and safety and protection measures. It also has specific instructions and rules regarding the regular testing of players and staff.
Where a club is accused of breaking the new rules, an SPFL disciplinary hearing would be convened where the club would be able to attend and give their side.
In a statement issued through their Joint Response Group yesterday, the governing body and league said that existing rules will “be strengthened to include the provision of sanctions for players who do not adhere to COVID-specific football protocols or government health guidelines”.
The JRG say this will “encompass recent breaches” and promises further details today.
The SFA’s compliance officer is expected to charge Bolingoli and the eight Pittodrie players with bringing the game into disrepute, or with failing to act in the best interests of Scottish football.
The Joint Response Group’s announcement came after discussions with the Scottish Government, who had warned that domestic football was on a final warning after the two incidents.
Celtic have already apologised to all SPFL clubs, but insist their player made the unscheduled trip to Malaga without the knowledge or permission of anyone at the club.
Now the Hoops are bracing themselves for another Bolingoli backlash after the midweek game against St Mirren in Paisley was also called off.
